By Mary N. DiZazzo

History of The Pedicure

Ciao bella,

Since the 1990's the Pedicure service has consistently developed into a phenomenon. Shortening the nails and grooming the feet go as far back as the caveman. It was more a "private service" not performed in salons. Before the 1970s in the get my hair done every week era most salons didn't have pedicures available. So with nails becoming a licensed specialty, Pedicures were offered by salons. The nail salons of the '70s and '80s were on average "acrylic salons" and performed few natural services due to the low prices expected to pay. A salon opened in 1980 and it had a Pedicure chair. Mostly used as a coat rack!

By the 1990s the spa age reached its growth of adding in Pedicures on their menus. Offering the feet care desired by the clients. By the 2000s feet were no longer hidden away. They were being groomed to be seen by others with color and nail art.

The explosion of salon owners purchasing spa/Pedicure chairs was unbelievable. In 1999 a manicurist came forward and wanted to be called a "Pedicurist". This gal saw there was money to be made and "foot spa" has become a common salon name for Pedicure salons.

So go out and get your tootsies done!

Wishing a happy Labor Day Some people can remember when the Witch Hazel distillery opened to the public. Like great grandparents, great aunts and great cousins!

Witch Hazel's principal producers for the past century, the E. E. Dickinson company and its offshoots located in Connecticut since Dickinson’s founding in the late 19th century for 150 years.

Now part of the American Distilling in East Hampton, Connecticut produces nearly all of the Witch Hazel used throughout the world — millions of gallons accounting for annual revenues dollar amount.

Used today the clear, fragrant, naturally astringent liquid is used to treat dozens of conditions and is included as an ingredient in hundreds of cosmetics and over-the-counter medication including shaving lotion, deodorant, headache remedies, hair rinses, sunburn cream and salves for cuts and insect bites. Also found in toothpastes and mouth wash.

Witch Hazel can remove excess oil from skin. It can also help to tighten pores, de-puff under eyes, tighten pores and relieve irritation.

Witch Hazel is having a renaissance in skincare products. Its ability to cleanse and clarify the skin is a grateful promise. Begun in the 19th century, it continues into the 21st, quietly putting Connecticut’s industrial savvy on proud display.

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull

Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist. She may be contacted at mary@mary4nails.com.