6 Steps to Beautiful Feet Just in Time for Summer
Strappy sandals are just around the corner and you know what that means: You’re going to need beautiful feet to match. If you’re like me and live in an area that still looks like a snow globe, the time to prepare is now, and I have to say – I’m a little scared to take off my socks. My feet have been stuffed in fuzzy slippers and ginormous boots for months now, and I’ll be the first to admit there are times I forget that feet are even attached to my body.
The summer’s going to be filled with a selection of open-toed shoes and a ton of outdoor activities where neglected feet are a big no-no (you don’t want to terrify your friends). It’s time to rip those socks off and prepare your tootsies for fun in the sun!
Here are 6 steps to beautiful feet (you’re welcome):
1. Give your feet a soak
After months of being covered up, you’re bound to have a few patches of dry skin. Left for too long, your skin will crack and could lead to infections. Start by soaking your feet in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes, which will help soften the rough patches and your toenails. Add 3 tablespoons of baking soda, 25 drops of lavender essential oil, and 5 drops of peppermint essential oil for a cooling effect.
2. Exfoliate as many times as necessary
You might have some spots on your feet that are more callused than others, so repeat these first two steps as many times as necessary. Towel dry your feet and use a pumice-based stone to eliminate any scaly skin. Rub lotion on the extra-dry portions until your skin looks even again.
3. Moisturize + massage your feet
Find a moisturizer that’s infused with a circulation-boosting ingredient like peppermint or rosemary and give yourself a foot rub! (This is something you should try and do on a regular basis, perhaps while watching one of your fave shows.)
Coat your palms with a thin layer of lotion, grip your feet and gently twist your hands from side-to-side like you’re wringing a towel. Use stroking motions to massage the sole of your foot with both thumbs, starting from behind your toes and moving toward your heel. Repeat on your other foot.
4. Strengthen your feet
Like the rest of your body, your feet have important muscles that need to be strengthened to improve your balance and support your body as a whole:
- Using a sock or towel, use your toes and pick it up off the floor. Hold for 10 seconds, than release. Repeat five times with each foot.
- Expand your toes for five seconds. Repeat five times with each foot.
- Leaning on a counter or chair for support, balance on one foot and stand tip-toed for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times with each foot.
5. Keep them cool and dry
Sweat can lead to icky infections, so no matter what time of year it is, it’s important to get into the habit of keeping your feet cool and dry: Dry them well after you shower, wear wool socks whenever you can to wick away moisture, wear shoes that fit properly and choose breathable footwear. Get into the habit of checking your feet weekly for any issues you might be having to head them off at the pass.
6. Pamper your beautiful feet
Cut your nails straight across and file them in one direction. Test out different foot scrubs and soaks and have fun with the process! Massage and moisturize as often as possible, and finish the adventure with a bold color of polish.
A little pampering goes a long way when maintaining beautiful feet. I’ve made a promise to myself this year to make this 6-step journey to beautiful feet a year-round event – you know, so when I take my socks off “Psycho Strings” doesn’t start playing in my head.
How do you maintain your beautiful feet?
Related on Organic Authority:
5 Steps to a Pretty-Feet Natural Pedicure
Cure Cold Feet, The Literal Kind
Get Your Feet Ready for Summer with this Homemade Food Scrub
Image: klndonnelly
