Our feet endure a lot, carrying us everywhere we need to go. All that walking puts significant stress on them. Giving your feet some TLC can refresh your whole body. A pedicure, whether done at home or at a spa, is a fantastic way to rejuvenate tired toes.
According to a survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association, many women regularly perform at-home pedicures or enjoy salon treatments. Regardless of how you choose to pamper your feet, safety is key. Here are some tips for a safe and effective pedicure:
1. Exfoliate your soles: Use a pumice stone, foot file, or homemade scrub (olive oil and sea salt) to smooth away calluses. Avoid foot razors, as they can remove too much skin, leading to infection.
2. Dry thoroughly: After soaking, rinse off any scrubs and dry your feet completely, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
3. Trim toenails correctly: Trim toenails straight across, just above the top of each toe. Use straight-edged clippers to avoid rounding the corners, which can cause ingrown nails.
4. Clean under nails gently: Use a wooden or rubber manicure stick to remove dirt. Avoid sharp tools that could puncture the skin and cause infection.
5. Shape and smooth: File toenails lightly in one direction with an emery board to smooth edges without drastically rounding the corners. Avoid a back-and-forth sawing motion.
6. Care for cuticles: Moisturize cuticles with cream and gently push them back with a rubber pusher. Never cut cuticles, as they protect against bacteria.
7. Polish responsibly: Only polish healthy nails. Remove polish regularly with a non-acetone remover to allow nails to breathe.