As the temperature raises it's time to kick off your boots and slip into your most favorite (and most revealing) pair of sandals. But before you head to the beach you might want to consider some spring cleaning for your feet. During the winter months your feet are exposed to many harmful conditions. Wearing those thick socks and heavy shoes can lead to moisture buildup while the opposite occurs when barefoot, as your feet can become extra dry due to the lack of moisture in the air.
To start the season off right, smart choices about grooming and extra care are important. The following at-home treatments recommended by the foot experts at the APMA are designed to get your feet ready for their showing in your favorite summer shoes.
1. Fill a bucket large enough for both feet with warm water and place it at the base of a comfortable chair.
2. Remove nail polish with non-acetone polish remover.
3. While sitting, grasp your foot and begin slowly moving your thumbs from the top of your toes to the bottom of your heal and back. Repeat this stroking as many times as needed to warm your feet and increase circulation.
4. Use a nail clipper to cut toenails straight across. Then use an emery board to smooth nail edges by filing in one direction without drastically rounding edges.
5. Soak feet in warm bucket of water for at least 5 minutes.
6. Raise feet out of bucket and place a foot file or pumice stone into the water. Use the file or stone to gently smooth the skin around the heal, balls, and sides of your feet.
7. Use a fresh towel to dry feet being sure to dry between each toe. As you are drying, cup your heel with one had at the ankle and grab the top of your foot with the other hand. Next, rotate the foot slowly at the ankle a few times in each direction. This will loosen your foot joints.
8. Apply and massage emollient-enriched skin lotion all over your feet. This will hydrate the skin and increase circulation.
9. After allowing the lotion to soak in, wash your feet with soap and water.
10. Before bed, lightly wrap cellophane around your entire foot. This will hold in the moisture allowing your feet to feel soothingly soft in the morning.