Pedicure

Originating in China in 3000 BC, nail colour indicated one's social status, according to a Ming Dynasty manuscript; royal fingernails were painted black and red.

A depiction of early manicures and pedicures was found on a carving from a pharaoh's tomb, and the Egyptians were known for paying special attention to their feet and legs.

It is said that Cleopatra's nails were painted a deep red, whereas Queen Nefertiti went with a flashier ruby shade.

In ancient Egypt and Rome, military commanders also painted their nails to match their lips before they went off to battle.

[4] These risks are particularly high for people with medical conditions that affect blood flow, sensation, immune response, or healing in the feet, such as diabetes.

Major health organizations such as the CDC recommend that diabetics do not soak their feet or remove calluses, and often have a podiatrist cut their toenails, which are some of the key parts of many pedicures.

A pedicure in progress
Street pedicure in Bamako
Pedicure
Foot soaking at a spa in Botswana