Are
you ready for summer? Going to wear sandals or go barefoot?
If so, don’t forget about your feet. Your feet work hard
all day long and deserve some pampering. Check out our 10-step
guide to get your feet pretty for summer.
Step
1:
Remove
polish from toes using a non-acetone remover. Avoid
acetone removers since they can dry out the nails and
cuticles.
Step
2:
Using a
pumice stone or foot file, slough off any rough spots or
calluses you may have. Never cut at calluses or other
troublesome foot problems such as bunions or corns. If
these are a problem, make an appointment with a podiatrist
(foot doctor). He or she can help you decide the best way
to remove them. For really rough feet try an exfoliating
foot scrub to soften them. If you prefer, you can make a
mixture of olive oil and raw sugar, and apply to feet.
Step
3:
Soak
feet for at least 10 minutes in a tub filled with warm
soapy water or your favorite bath salts. You can also add
a few drops of your favorite essential oil such as tea
tree to the water for an added treat. Tea tree oil is also
excellent for itchy dry feet.
Step
4:
Clean
under nails using the pointed end of orange stick. While
you’re at it, gently push back each cuticle using the
slanted end of the orange stick. Never cut cuticles since
it can lead to a serious infection.
Step
5:
Thoroughly rinse feet and pat dry with a soft towel.
Step
6:
Apply a
moisturizing cream or foot lotion and massage into feet
starting at the bottom and working your way to the top of
the foot. Don’t forget in between your toes and your
ankles.
Step
7:
Using
nail clippers, trim toe nails straight across and then
gently file the edges into a square shape with an emery
board. A square shape will help avoid ingrown nail
problems. Be sure to file in one direction only to avoid
weakening the nails.
Step
8:
Apply a
coat of clear base-coat polish and allow to dry. A base
coat will prevent dark colors such as red, from yellowing
nails.
Step
9:
Next,
apply a coat or two of your favorite shade of polish.
Allow to Dry.
Step
10:
Finally,
apply a clear top-coat polish to help seal the color and
give it extra shine. For added wear, extend the top-coat
over and under the tip of the nail.
To keep
feet pretty throughout the summer, pay a little extra
attention to feet at least once a week while in the shower
or bath using the steps above. After the shower or before
bedtime, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to feet and slip
into a pair of socks for extra softness.
If
you’re feet are going to be exposed to the sun this summer,
be sure to apply a sun block of at least a 15 to your
feet. Happy Pampering!
