Feet can often end up feeling quite tired, and while they may not be on show as much during the winter months, this does not mean that you should neglect them. Instead, give your feet a break, and set aside a bit of time to spoil them with some extra attention and care.
Nail Polish Holiday
While the idea that nails need to “breathe” is actually a myth, keeping your nail polish on for long periods of time, or not leaving a break in between new applications, can still have a detrimental effect on the health of your nails. Keratin granulation is usually the result of this, and refers to the rough white patches that form on the nail when nail polish is removed. This can then lead to dryness and discoloration amongst many other issues, so try to give your nails a nail polish holiday of at least three weeks every once in a while.
A Home Pedicure
While you may not feel as though your pedicure skills can match up to the professionals at your local salon, it is still worth regularly treating your feet to a pedicure at home. To begin with, use a nail polish remover to remove all traces of polish, before soaking your feet in warm water for five minutes, as this will help to soften the nails. Once dry, use a clipper to cut your nails straight across, before soaking your feet again, but this time in warm water that also contains either rock salt or sea salt. Then, using a pumice stone, buff away any dead skin or calluses, before using a soft nail brush to clean your toenails. A cuticle stick will help to push cuticles away from the edges of your nails, and then, once you are done, place some cotton pads between your toes, and begin painting your nails.
Detox Foot Soak
A detox foot soak does not need to be at all difficult to throw together, making them ideal for relaxing at the end of a hectic day. The necessary ingredients are easy to find, and all you need to do is create a detox mixture by combining a cup of Epsom salt, a cup of sea salt, two cups of baking soda, and some lavender essential oil. Add this to a tub of warm water, and then allow your feet to soak in it for this for 30 minutes, before rinsing off and drying. This is a fantastic detox foot soak recipe, as the ions in the salt work in a similar way to magnets, drawing out the toxins in your body through your feet. Once you are done, apply a layer of moisturizer to your feet, but be sure to use one that only contains natural ingredients, as you do not want any chemicals or toxins making their way back into your body.
Your feet do not deserve to be neglected, and by taking the best possible care of them throughout the winter, they will be more than ready to be shown off once spring rolls back around. From giving them a nail polish holiday for a few weeks, to indulging in a detox foot soak after a long, hard day, these tips will ensure that your feet remain as healthy as possible.
