As the weather starts to warm up, you’ve got even more reasons to get that pedicure! But instead of shelling out for a pricey professional pedi, follow these great tips for a DIY pedicure that’s just as good as the salon’s!
Don’t forget to soak
This is one of the best parts of the salon pedicure, and though you may not have the full-on chair and dub combo, you can still get a good soak in. Fill a big basin or bowl with warm water, or sit on the edge of the tub, and add some softening salts or essential oils like rosemary or peppermint. Soak your feet for about seven or eight minutes to really rejuvenate and soften them.
Clip your nails right
Badly trimmed or filed toenails are more likely to snag or break, and in bad cases you can even end up with the miserable discomfort of having ingrown nails.
- Choose a clipper designed for toenails; don’t try to get by with the same one you use on your fingers.
- Start by trimming in a straight line, but then round the edges slightly with a nail file.
Keep your feet soft and supple
Rough, hard feet aren’t good for you: not only do they look unsightly, but they heighten the risk of cracked skin that can let in bacteria.
- If you spot any calluses, don’t try shaving them. A kinder, gentler alternative is to use a pumice stone.
- The lactic acid in milk is great for smoothing skin, so give your feet a ten-minute bath in a mix of milk and warm water.