It is definitely possible to have soft, smooth and healthy feet. It just takes a little attention, the right tools and proper cream. This article provides information on how to soften your weary feet and at the same time, relieve a little stress.
Get comfortable and get scrubbing
If your feet are calloused, the first thing you need to do is get rid of the hard surface. This can easily be done with a pumice stone. The goal is to be comfortable while in the process so that you have control over the stone and you can see what you are doing. A good hand held pumice stone will do the trick but if you prefer, instead of using one that you hold in your hand, get one that is attached to a long handle or brush.
Once the calloused skin is removed, you can prevent it from reforming by periodically using a salt scrub. Historians have written that the Dead Sea was the location of one of the world's first health resorts. Why - because of the abundant source of clays and salts. Dead Sea mineral salts are a great way to gently exfoliate rough, dry and flaky skin. Look for a product that blends the salt with organic castile soap and antibacterial organic essential oils for extra care.
Exfoliate and Moisturize in one step
If you are a skin care aficionado you are probably familiar with the exfoliating properties of Glycolic Acid but did you know that it is also great for moisturizing dry feet? Glycolic acid is a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that is commonly used as a natural acne remedy. AHAs are mild acids that gently remove the dull outer layer of the skin. Certain Alpha Hydroxy Acids are made from citrus fruits, apples and grapes. Glycolic Acid in particular is made from sugar cane.
A foot cream made with Glycolic Acid works by going under the cracked upper layers of the heal or toes and dissolving the "glue" that holds the dead skin together. Look for cream or balms that contain tea tree oil (for its antibacterial properties) as well other essential oils that will help to keep your feet smelling shower fresh all day.
Keep the feet and toes dry
It is important to prevent the cracking from happening in the first place. The best and simplest way is to use a good foot powder made from absorbent baking soda. Look for one that has a pleasant deodorizing aroma. Sprinkle a little into your shoes each morning and at the day's end, and your dry and happy feet will say "thanks!".
Put it all together and get ready to relax
Your foot care regimen is not complete without a good herbal soak. Gather everything you will need before you begin: One large bath towel and one hand towel. If it's your at home pedicure day, please gather necessary instruments (nail polish remover, pumice stone, Dead Sea salt scrub, cotton balls/pads, cuticle stick, nail file, nail clippers, toe separators, Cuticle Butter, and nail polish) and remove your nail polish before beginning.
Fold the large towel in half and place it on the floor. Put a low (at least 8 inches tall) wide basin on top of the folded towel. Fill the basin with approximately 3 to 4 inches of very warm water. Add a generous scoopful of the herbal soak to the water and stir gently. Soak your feet for at least 15 minutes and then lightly dry them with the smaller towel (If you will not be giving yourself a pedicure, rinse your feet in the bath tub, dry well and apply either a softening AHA or tea trea balm, followed by the cuticle butter.) Use a good foot pumice stone to exfoliate any hardened calloused skin and then scrub your feet with a small handful of the Dead Sea salt foot scrub. Dip your feet in the water again to remove all exfoliated skin and then pat them dry. Gently push your cuticles back with cuticle stick, trim toe nails and file your nails. Rinse your feet well in the bath tub with fresh, warm water, pat dry and apply a generous layer of the foot balm and proceed with your pedicure. Be sure to pass nail polish remover over each toe nail after you have applied your foot balm, so that your nail polish adheres properly.
I hope you found this article useful.
