Facial skincare has become a part of our everyday routines – but sadly we can’t say the same for our feet.
Dry, cracked feet are common (very common) and their roughness is logical when we think about how much pressure we put on our feet everyday.
The sad reality is that our feet are neglected when it comes to moisturising, exfoliating and all-round pruning – when, actually, they are a part of the body that needs the most TLC.
We asked experts to share their tips on on achieving baby-smooth feet and how to maintain them as the weeks go on…
Soak them weekly
Podiatrist Heena Patel says that before any exfoliation, it’s best to soak the feet in warm, salty water. For best results, this should be done once a week.
She says: ‘Use dead sea salt rather than normal table salt. Dead sea salt contains zinc and magnesium which have healing properties and can help relieve tired and sore muscles. Dead sea salt also has exfoliating properties.’
Use a foot file when feet are dry
Most of us will be familiar with taking a foot file to our soles in an attempt to shed some dry skin – but podiatrist Bharti Rajput says it’s important to do this when feet are dry, rather than wet.
She explains: ‘When the skin is wet, it tends to become more rubbery. So on a dry foot, you can actually buff the skin down.
‘Put a nice piece of kitchen towel or newspaper on the floor and you’ll get great pleasure in seeing white powdery hard skin getting rubbed off your feet.’
Invest in a good moisturiser
Heena adds that when choosing a foot moisturiser it’s always best to ensure it contains urea.
She explains: ‘Urea is a super-hydrating ingredient and really targets stubborn and cracked areas on the skin.
‘Think of your feet like plants – they get thirsty and need water to survive ,so hydrate them regularly.’
Have a regular footcare routine
Podiatrist Claire Forbes stresses that it’s important not to neglect our feet, when it comes to skincare.
She says: ‘You would book regular facials at a spa and take the time to apply a good skincare regime – well, the same needs to be done for your feet, especially because they’re hidden away most of the time.
‘I strongly believe a good footcare routine and regular foot treatments is the best way for clients to treat any hard skin conditions, such as callus, and to maintain beautifully healthy and smooth skin.’
Claire adds: ‘I would recommend a good cleanse, treat and moisturise routine to ensure healthy smooth feet while easing any symptoms of dry, cracked skin.’
Get a medical pedicure
Unlike a pedicure carried out by a nail technician (which mainly involves making feet look good), a medical pedicure focuses on the hygienic and aesthetic care of the toenails and the soles of the feet.
Heena says this can be a great option if you’re looking for a thorough overhaul of the feet.
She adds: ‘A good medical pedicure treatment will involve a full foot health check, footwear advice followed by a safe and surgical removal of dead skin and a sander is then used to smooth and finish – followed by a moisturiser and mini massage.’
What’s the deal with Feet Week?
Feet Week is a week dedicated entirely to feet… as the name probably gives away.
We figured we could all do with something unrelated to coronavirus to occupy our minds during the pandemic – and what better topic than feet?
From 4 May to 10 May you can find articles on everything feet, from what it actually takes to be a foot model to what it’s like to be a pro toe wrestler.
You can read all our Feet Week content right here.
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