The Summer 2026 Pedicure Trend That Focuses On More Than Just Your Toes

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Summer 2026 is on track to bring some stunning pedicure trends, but there's one in particular that involves more than just your toes — skin-focused pedicures. Lisa Kon, celebrity nail artist, founder of the Lisa Kon brand, and owner of the Lisa Kon nail salon chain, exclusively tells Women that this trend is all about keeping the whole foot healthy rather than just dressing up your toenails. "Advanced techniques like dry hardware pedicure (instead of soaking), precise callus removal, and targeted treatments for dry or cracked skin are becoming the new standard," she explains. "People no longer see pedicures as just a polish change or a relaxing treatment — they want healthy, well-maintained skin and long-term results."

The benefits of this treatment go beyond the extra pampering, especially during the hotter months when open-toed shoes reign supreme. "When done properly, [skin-focused pedicures] help maintain softer skin, reduce cracking and dryness, improve the appearance of the feet, and create a cleaner, healthier look overall. Clients also often notice that their pedicures last better when the skin and cuticles are properly maintained," Kon says.

Different salons may have their own names for skin-focused pedicures, so it's important to be explicit about what you want. Lisa Kon exclusively tells us to look for terms like "medical-style pedicure," "dry pedicure," "Russian pedicure," or even "spa pedicure focused on foot care and skin health" to ensure you're getting more than just your standard pedi (we broke down every type of pedicure here). "I always recommend asking specifically for detailed cuticle work, callus care, and deep hydration treatments rather than focusing only on polish application," she says. Now go forth with fabulous feet!

There are ways to sustain your medical pedicure after your salon visit too. Moisturizing socks or foot masks, such as Love, Lori's Moisturizing Socks with Vitamin E and JoJoba Oil or PLANTIFIQUE's Korean Foot Mask with Shea Butter, will keep your feet hydrated and your heels smooth all summer long. Cuticle oils, like the Cuccio Naturale Milk and Honey Revitalizing Cuticle Oil or the Vitamin E Nail and Cuticle Oil from Sally Hansen, will also have your feet looking their best by conditioning dry toenails and cuticles.

There are a few toe-exposing shoe trends that will not only put the focus on your super healthy feet, but will have you looking super stylish too. Cynthia Kennedy, personal stylist, image consultant, and creator of Your Style Transformation Academy, broke down the summer 2026 shoe trends that will let your pedicures shine. She recommends the likes of raffia slides and upgraded thong sandals (think polished, luxury materials).