Feet Skin Care Tips

by Monica Prata

A good pedicure is of course the ideal way to take care of your feet, but if you're in between pedicures or your feet just need a little extra TLC, here are a few ways you can take care of your feet on your own!

Soak: After a long day when feet are hot and achy, there is nothing more relaxing than a soothing foot soak. Soaking your feet will relax tightened muscles and soften hard and calloused skin. You can make a simple soak using 3 cups of water and 4 cups of milk, for dry feet add a couple teaspoons of olive oil or honey and stir before and after heating. Be sure to test the temperature of your foot soak before putting your feet in. Once your mixture is prepared and heated, take a seat, grab a book and soak for 15 to 20 minutes.

Exfoliate: After soaking is the best time to exfoliate because much of the hard, calloused skin is softened and can easily be removed. If your feet are in need of some serious exfoliation, you can start by making a sugar scrub to loosen calloused skin and then use a pumice stone to buff it away. Sugar scrubs can be made using half a cup of sugar, a quarter cup of olive oil, and a little lemon juice. After using the sugar scrub, pat your feet dry with a towel, leaving a little moisture, and then use the pumice stone or a foot file to remove the hard skin on toes and heels. Rinse feet and dry thoroughly.

Trim: Cutting your toenails regularly will keep them clear and healthy. Dry your feet completely and cut nails in a straight line. Avoid cutting the edges of toenails too deeply because this can cause bleeding, infection or even worse-- fungus.

Moisturize: Using an ample amount of your favorite moisturizer, massage your feet until the moisturizer is almost entirely absorbed. For feet that are very dry you may want to try a deep moisturizing treatment.

After applying moisturizer, put a thick layer of petroleum jelly on top of the moisturizer and work the jelly into the skin, leaving a thin layer on top of the skin. Wrap plastic around the feet (cellophane works well). When doing this, be certain that no skin is exposed. Sleep with the plastic wrap on your feet and remove in the morning before showering. Wash your feet as you would normally in the shower and re-moisturize with your favorite lotion.

Any or all of these foot care tips can make a huge difference and keep your dogs from barking all day!

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