Skincare is important especially for your feet which are often overlooked. However, they tirelessly work for us daily and deserve our attention. Whether you prefer at-home pedicures or regular salon visits, taking proper care of your feet is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about comfort, health, and confidence. Here are some things you need to know to maintain smooth feet, with healthy nails, and crack-free heels.
1. Start With Clean, Soaked Feet
Soaking your feet softens the skin, loosens dirt, and prepares your nails for trimming. A good soak should last about 10 to 15 minutes. Use warm (not hot) water and consider adding some essential oils for added relaxation.:
- Epsom salts – to relax muscles and reduce swelling
- Tea tree oil – for natural antibacterial and antifungal properties
- A few drops of lavender oil – for soothing aromatherapy benefits
It is often recommended to use a foot soak solution with nourishing ingredients like coconut milk or peppermint.
2. Exfoliate Gently but Effectively
Once your feet are soaked, it’s time to tackle dead skin and calluses. The key is consistency, not force. Avoid scraping too hard, as this can cause irritation and lead to rougher skin over time..
Tools & Products to Use:
- Pumice stone or foot file (manual exfoliation)
- Glycolic acid foot masks or peels (chemical exfoliation)
- Foot scrubs with sugar, salt, or fine pumice particles
- Electric foot exfoliators (for very dry or thick calluses)
Skilled nail techs will focus on the heels, balls of the feet, and sides of the big toes, where calluses tend to build up.
3. Trim and Shape Nails the Right Way
Poor nail care can lead to issues like ingrown toenails, breakage, or fungal infections. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use clean, sharp nail clippers
- Cut nails straight across, not rounded, to prevent ingrown nails
- Smooth edges gently with a nail file
- Avoid cutting nails too short or cutting into the corners
Keep toenails trimmed every 2–3 weeks, depending on growth.
4. Moisturize Like You Mean It
Feet are prone to dryness due to their limited oil glands compared to other body parts. If you want healthy feet, daily hydration, particularly after exfoliating or showering, is important. You should moisturize your entire body daily.
Look for foot creams with:
- Urea – for deep moisture and skin-softening
- Shea butter or cocoa butter – for rich hydration
- Tea tree oil or peppermint – for odor control and refreshment
- Ceramides – to repair and strengthen skin barrier
For best results, add a thick layer of foot cream at night and you might want to consider wearing cotton socks to lock in moisture while you sleep. Be sure to use enough cream.
5. Fix and Prevent Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are common. But they are not only uncomfortable but can also become infected if left untreated. Cracked heals are often caused by dry skin, prolonged standing, or wearing open-back shoes..
How to Treat Them:
- Soak feet and exfoliate gently
- Apply a thick, occlusive foot balm with urea, lanolin, or petrolatum
- Use a silicone heel sleeve overnight
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors
- Stay hydrated and wear proper shoes
If cracks are deep or bleeding, skip home treatment and see a podiatrist.
6. Bonus: Keep It Fresh and Fungus-Free
Fungal infections are common on feet. Be on the lookout for things, such as athlete’s foot or toenail fungus. Infections and funguses, can severely damage even the most meticulous pedicure routine. Here are some effective ways to maintain clean and safe feet.:
- Change socks daily
- Let shoes dry completely between wears
- Use antifungal powder or spray if your feet sweat a lot
- Dry between your toes thoroughly after showers
- Don’t share nail tools, and sanitize them after every use
If you go to salons, choose one that sterilizes their tools properly or bring your own kit.
A good way to avoid fungal infections is not getting spa pedicures at your local mall salon. Instead look for certified nail techs that perforn waterless pedicure services like they do at Addicted To Nails who specialize in the best pedicure in Tempe.