We expect so much from our feet, and often forget them when we think about pampering ourselves. An in-home pedicure can be quite simple to do, and not only make your feet look good but feel good as well.
What are some of the issues you may find, when dealing with your feet?
1. Corns and Calluses
2. Cracked Heels
3. Ingrown Toenails
4. Bunions
1. Corns and Calluses
What is a callus? This is one of the most common foot problems, and is an area of toughened skin that has developed because of repeated contact or pressure. A corn is similar, but is a more localized thickening of the skin, and is often conical in shape, and found on toes and the sole of the foot. Calluses are usually pain-free although they may cause a slight burning sensation, but can progress to cause underlying tissue damage.
As with so many things, prevention is better than cure. Properly fitting shoes are a must, and soothing feet with moisturizing and softening creams also work as a preventative.
Corns usually respond best to professional treatment, and a good chiropodist makes light work of them. Corn pads do not always ensure the complete removal of the corn.
2. Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are the bane of those who suffer with dry skin, so combating the dry skin is imperative. Before moisturizing, all dry skin should be buffed away.
3. Ingrown Toenails
These are often caused by ill-fitting shoes and incorrect trimming of toenails. You should always cut straight across using nail clippers, but making sure to respect the natural shape of the nail. You should never cut the sides of the nail.
As podiatrist Emma Supple explains "This is a painful condition that occurs when the nail starts to press into the fleshy part of the adjacent skin. It can easily become infected and needs professional podiatry treatment."
4. Bunions
Although bunions may be inherited, most are caused by ill-fitting shoes. For most people they begin as "just a bump" on a big toe, but as they progress, the big toe begins to push into and angle against the other toes. Once developed, surgery is the only option, thus - again - prevention is better than cure. Be careful with shoe styles that compact toes into an unnatural form.
So, now you know what you may find, let the pampering begin!
Things you will need:
Manicure set
Pedicure Tool (or pumice stone, and file)
Bowl of warm water
Towel for drying.
Foot Soak
Foot Scrub
Moisturizing Cream
Cracked Heel Cream
Cuticle Conditioner
Begin by filing away the dead skin on your feet, with a foot file. File the sides, balls and heels of the feet. Always do this when the feet are dry, as filing when wet can damage the skin in this area.
Put some foot soak into the bowl of warm water and soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.
Use the foot scrub to remove and remaining bits of skin, and make the area smooth.
Dry your feet completely. Athlete's Foot can occur if they stay damp.
Using the moisturizing cream, massage into your feet. If you have an issue with cracked heels, use the cracked heel cream and massage it into the heel area.
Now ... doesn't that feel good?
Now, push the cuticles down, apply cuticle conditioner and massage into the cuticle and nail area.
Using small snips, trim the toenails, and finish by filing into shape.
Now they are all ready for polish ... if you want to pretty them up!
Everything you need can be found on my AVON webstore at www.youravon.com/rosemarydempsey or just click on any of the links above.
Here's to happy feet!
