Shutterstock
Regular pedicures can improve your life in many different ways. Having your feet massaged, primped, and pampered is a great source of stress relief. Being able to wear sandals or take off your shoes in front of company is a confidence builder as well. Not to mention, the dead skin removal that comes with pedicures can eliminate unsightliness such as callouses and foot odor. Read on to find out how to give yourself pedicures from the comfort of your home!
1. Soak your feet
Shutterstock
The first step to your professional pedicure is often the first step when you visit a salon: soak your feet! Find a bowl that is wide and deep enough, fill it with warm water to soften the skin (be careful not to burn yourself), and let your feet sit in it until you feel relaxed and your skin is softened enough to start the next step.
Tip: Adding Epsom salts or homemade ingredients designed for softening skin or aiding in aches and pains can enhance the effects of this step. It also adds to the feeling of being pampered, you deserve it after all!
2. Slough off the dead skins
Shutterstock
This is my favorite part as I absolutely hate the feeling of dry, scaly feet. Once your feet are nice and softened from the foot soak, proceed with removing the dead skin with either an exfoliating gel or pumice stone, etc. Your feet are used and abused every day. Wearing shoes for a long period of time daily will cause your feet to sweat with minimal ability to breathe. Many people may develop foot odor because of this, so this step is particularly important if this applies to you.
3. Moisturize and massage
Shutterstock
Once your feet are super soft from the previous steps, it’s time to apply lotion. You can choose whichever body lotion is your fave or go with a lotion specialized for moisturizing the feet! Take this opportunity to massage the lotion into your skin and really rub those areas that may be sensitive from being overworked.
4. Remove your cuticles
Shutterstock
Now, it’s time to deal with your nails! Many people overlook the cuticles on the feet because they don’t think they’re as important as the ones on your hands but that’s just not true! Removing the cuticles on your toes will really enhance the look of your feet. Apply a cuticle softener, push your cuticles up the nails and trim them using a cuticle trimmer. This can also be a good time to notice if you may have any ingrown toenails. If so, I recommend letting a professional handle it!
5. Shape your nails
Shutterstock
Once your toes are clean and pampered, it’s time to grab your nail filer and/or nail trimmer. Different toenail shapes will affect the look of your feet, so pic a shape that’s best for you and file away! If you want to apply polish to your toes, proceed with the same techniques you use on your hand, but make sure to separate your toes to avoid smudging the polish! If the spa treatment was all you needed, I recommend ending this ritual with some cuticle oil.
Tip: Removing dirt under the nails is crucial to keep your feet clean and healthy, and especially so if you don’t plan on wearing any polish. A lot of dirt and dead skin can get trapped under there which can contribute to odor.
Tip: Use spa socks overnight with your favorite lotion to keep your heels from becoming cracked!
There you have it ladies! These 5 steps can really boost your confidence and the health of your feet. Even if your lifestyle doesn’t allow for your feet to breathe until bedtime, taking the time to give your feet a spa treatment once in a while can really improve your quality of life. Let us know if pedicures have become a beauty ritual for you, too!
