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On average, Americans walk about 120,000 kilometers in the first 50 years of their lives – which means a tremendous amount of pressure is placed on their feet. Our feet are among the hardest-working parts of the body, so they deserve proper care. There are several steps you can take to care for your feet, including removing dead skin or calluses from the soles. However, it’s important to note that using razors or sharp objects to scrape the skin can be dangerous. Instead of razors, opt for a pumice stone or a foot file to gently exfoliate and remove dry, dead skin.
Steps
Softening Foot Skin at Home
Soak your feet in lemon juice. Soaking your feet in lemon juice for about 10 minutes is an effective way to remove dry, dead skin. The acid in lemons helps loosen dead skin, making it easier to exfoliate. After soaking, you can use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove the dead skin.
- Foot razors are available at many stores and pharmacies, but they are not recommended by doctors. Many U.S. states have banned their use in spas due to the risk of cuts and scrapes, which can easily become infected – especially in spa environments.
Create your own heel balm at home. Pour a tablespoon of olive oil into a small jar with a lid. Add a few drops of lemon or lavender essential oil to the jar. Seal the lid tightly and shake until the mixture thickens and turns milky white. Apply the blend to your feet, focusing on the heels to moisturize the skin. You can store the jar for future use, just remember to shake well before each application.
Apply oil to your feet before bedtime. Start by showering and washing your feet thoroughly, or simply wash your feet separately. Dry them with a towel, making sure to dry between the toes. Spread a layer of vegetable oil all over your feet. Put on thick socks and go to sleep. You’ll notice significantly softer feet in just a few days.
- Oil can stain fabrics, such as socks, so choose a pair you don’t mind getting stained. The socks also prevent oil from transferring to your bedsheets.
Make an overnight foot mask. Mix 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of Vaseline (or a similar product) with the juice of one lemon in a bowl. Shower to wash your feet or wash them separately, then dry them completely. Apply the ENTIRE mixture to both feet, then put on thick wool socks and go to sleep. The next morning, remove the socks and scrub away the dead skin.
- Wool socks are used here to prevent the mixture from leaking and staining your bedsheets. Choose socks you don’t mind getting dirty due to the oily mixture.
Try paraffin wax to moisturize your feet. Place the wax in a large bowl and melt it in the microwave (or use a double boiler if available). Add an equal amount of mustard oil to the melted wax. Ensure the wax isn’t too hot, then dip one foot into the bowl, coating it entirely with the wax mixture. Lift your foot out, let the wax dry, and dip it again. Wrap your foot in plastic wrap or a plastic bag. Repeat the steps with the other foot. Wait about 15 minutes before removing the wrap and wax.
- Mustard oil helps strengthen the skin and keeps your feet moisturized.
DIY Pedicure
Soak your feet. First, find or purchase a large basin that can comfortably fit both feet and is deep enough to fully submerge them. Add a few drops of mild soap to the basin and fill it halfway with warm water. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for an aromatic therapy experience. Sit in a comfortable chair and soak your feet for about 10 minutes.
- Use 1/2 cup of Epsom salt instead of soap. Epsom salt is a mineral containing magnesium and sulfate, both of which are beneficial for health and are quickly absorbed through the skin. These minerals can boost serotonin production, increase energy, reduce inflammation, eliminate foot odor, and improve circulation.
- Use 1/4 cup of white vinegar instead of soap. Vinegar offers numerous benefits beyond the kitchen. Soaking your feet in a vinegar mixture can help eliminate foot odor and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Its acidic nature also softens the skin, making it easier to remove dead or dry skin.
Remove dead skin and calluses. Use a pumice stone or foot file to scrub away dead skin and calluses on the soles of your feet. You may need to bend your foot backward to reach the entire heel. Don’t forget to check between your toes for any calluses or dead skin.
- Remember to wet the pumice stone before use.
- Pumice stones, foot files, emery boards, etc., are all excellent options for removing dead or dry skin after soaking. Foot razors are available at many pharmacies and stores but are not recommended by doctors due to the risk of cuts and scrapes, which can lead to infections.
Care for cuticles and nails. Use a cuticle stick to push back the toenail cuticles, then use large nail clippers or specialized toenail clippers to trim your nails. If you prefer longer nails, ensure they don’t extend past the tips of your toes. Additionally, cut your nails straight across the width. Avoid cutting into the corners or too deeply, as this can cause ingrown nails and pain. File the edges with a nail file or emery board after trimming.
Moisturize your feet and ankles. Apply a high-quality moisturizer to your feet, including your toes and toenails. You can use a rolling pin or foot massager before or after applying the moisturizer for a deeper massage. Feel free to apply a generous amount of moisturizer during this step – but be cautious when walking if the cream hasn’t fully absorbed.
Paint your toenails. If you want to paint your toenails, start by using a small amount of nail polish remover to clean any moisturizer off the nails. Apply a clear base coat and let it dry before adding additional layers. Apply 1-2 coats of colored polish, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. Finally, add a top coat to each nail. Once all layers are complete, wait for the top coat to dry completely before putting on socks or shoes. It’s best to go barefoot or wear open-toed sandals to ensure the polish dries fully.
- Nail polish remover comes in acetone and non-acetone varieties. Acetone-based removers are more effective at removing polish but can be harsher on the skin and nails. If you have dry or brittle nails or frequently remove polish, consider using a non-acetone remover. Non-acetone removers are gentler but may require more effort to remove polish.
Foot Care
Choose the right shoes. One of the best things you can do for your feet is to wear properly fitting shoes. Ill-fitting shoes create friction and pressure, leading to calluses, corns, and dry skin. Consider these factors when finding the right pair.
- Measure BOTH feet. One foot might be larger than the other. Choose shoes that fit the larger foot.
- Shop for shoes in the evening when your feet are at their largest. This ensures the shoes won’t feel tight when your feet swell.
- Don’t rely on the manufacturer’s size. Trust how the shoes actually feel on your feet.
- Select shoes that match the shape of your feet. Poorly shaped shoes can cause issues.
- Don’t assume shoes will stretch over time.
- Ensure the widest part of your foot fits comfortably in the shoe’s widest area. The shoe should also have enough depth for your toes to move freely.
- Leave about 1-1.3 cm of space between your big toe and the shoe’s tip. Use the width of your finger to estimate this gap while standing.
Keep your feet dry. Wear soft cotton socks inside your shoes, especially during physical activities. Allow shoes to dry completely after activities that cause excessive sweating. Avoid wearing the same socks for two consecutive days. Change socks during the day if they get wet or sweaty. Wash your feet daily, paying attention to the spaces between your toes to prevent conditions like athlete’s foot, and dry them thoroughly before putting on socks. These precautions help avoid foot odor, redness, and eczema.
- Wear flip-flops or sandals in areas like pools or public showers.
Moisturize your feet daily. The best way to prevent dry, cracked feet is to apply a high-quality moisturizer daily. Moisturizing is especially important in winter when the air becomes dry and cold. Avoid walking barefoot on wooden or tiled floors after applying cream. You might find that moisturizing before bed is the easiest and safest routine.
- Massage your feet while applying moisturizer. Foot massages are not only relaxing but also improve blood circulation.
- Avoid excessively hot showers or baths, as hot water can dry out your skin faster.
- Use a moisturizer specifically designed for feet, as other creams may contain alcohol and dry out your skin.
Prevent and remove corns on your feet. Surprisingly, most foot problems are caused by shoes, not walking. Corns (calluses on toes) form due to friction inside shoes, often because of incorrect shoe or sock size. High heels can also cause corns, as they put pressure on the toes and forefoot, pushing the toes against the shoe. You can prevent and treat corns at home, but consult a doctor if the condition worsens.
- Soak your feet in warm water regularly and use a pumice stone or foot file to remove dead skin and corns.
- Apply protective pads to your toes when wearing shoes. Medicated corn pads are not recommended.
- Switch to shoes that fit well and provide ample toe room. Limit wearing high heels if possible.
Elevate your feet. This is a doctor-recommended tip, so make it a habit to raise your feet whenever possible! If you’ve been sitting for a long time, take a few minutes to stand up and walk around. If you tend to cross your legs while sitting, switch positions regularly. These practices help improve blood circulation to your legs and feet.
Warnings
- Individuals with diabetes must pay extra attention to foot care. If you have diabetes, follow your doctor’s guidelines for proper foot care.
