The dry and cold weather in the winter can wreak havoc on your feet. In the winter, it’s easy to hide their appearance by wearing socks and closed-toe shoes. But when summer comes around and you want to wear flip-flops, you need your winter feet looking hydrated and glowing.
Rejuvenate Your Winter Feet
Your feet have probably gone neglected during the cold season, which is why they’re looking like they’re in need of some serious TLC. You’ll want to nourish and care for your feet to rejuvenate the skin, cuticles, and nails, and get them ready for your summer sandals.
Getting consistent pedicures is one way to heal your winter feet, but there are also several home remedies you can try without having to go to the nail salon.
Foot Bath
Bring the spa home and create a foot bath for yourself. Whether you use a large bucket or your bathtub, soaking your feet in some warm water for 15 minutes can do wonders. Add Epsom salts to the water for some relaxation, as well as a few drops of your favorite essential oil for some aromatherapy.
Pumice Stone
Before you try and rejuvenate your feet, it’s important to get rid of any dead skin cells that could be blocking your moisturizer from being absorbed in the skin. Use a pumice stone or scrub for a few minutes everyday to slough off dead skin cells and calluses. This will also help smooth out the texture of your feet. It’s best to use a pumice stone on a consistent basis, using it for a little bit of time each day rather than using it in one long session every once in awhile.
Moisturize Damp Feet
If your feet are feeling dry, it may seem obvious to use a good moisturizer on them. While this is definitely an effective plan, it’s best to carry out this plan of action after a foot bath or shower. The pores in your damp skin will have opened up after a bath or shower, allowing them to better absorb any lotion or cream that’s applied. Once your feet are dry, your skin often protects itself by creating a sealed barrier against the environment.
Use a Foot Mask
Beauty masks aren’t just for your face. The same way a facial mask can be healing, so can a foot mask. The best way to use a foot mask is to apply the healing mixture onto your feet after a bath or shower, then wrap your feet in plastic wrap or a towel for about 5 minutes. This will help trap the moisture in and allow your foot mask to work its full powers on your feet.
Oil Up Your Cuticles
You know how your cuticles can become dry around your fingernails? Well, the same thing can happen to your toenails. If anything, your toenail cuticles are probably worse off as they’re farther from sight and rarely moisturized. To heal toenail cuticles, apply an oil like coconut oil to your cuticles, rubbing the oil deep into the ridges and crevices of your toenails. They’ll not only moisturize the nails, but they’ll also help strengthen them and prevent future snags and hangnails.
Wear Moisture Socks
Moisture socks are one of the easiest ways to heal dry, cracked feet with minimal effort. After you use your favorite foot moisturizer, throw on a pair of moisture socks, or just a pair of 100% cotton socks, and wear the socks to bed. The socks will help lock moisture into your skin and allow your moisturizing treatment to work its magic all night long, while you simply sleep.
Weekly Foot Care Routine
While you may have neglected your feet all winter long, you shouldn’t make a habit of ignoring your feet. Coming up with a consistent foot care routine is vital to maintaining healthy-looking feet.
Like the rest of the skin on your body, your feet need consistent nourishment and care, so coming up with a weekly foot care routine is one of the best ways you can ensure that your feet don’t get forgotten. It’s also how you’ll be able to transform your feet for summer and show them off in a new pair of sandals.
References
Kellner, L. (2018, January 16). Treat Winter Feet With These Nourishing Remedies. Retrieved April 04, 2018, from https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/winter-feet-care-how-to-care-for-feet-in-the-winter
Regan, R. (2009, August 20). How to Moisturize Your Feet. Retrieved April 04, 2018, from https://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/moisturizing/basics/moisturize-feet1.htm
