It’s that time of year when you should be spreading cheer, yet all you can think about is your aching feet. Your feet may ache because you choose trendy shoes over more comfortable ones, or perhaps, because you don’t give them a little rest and relaxation every now and then. Pampering your feet is not only important for overall foot health, but it can be a great stress reliever as well. Below are some pointers for your next pedicure.
Safety at the salon. Bring your own pedicure set to the salon. There’s no way to be sure they are using proper sterilization techniques between clients. We recommend the SOS Safe Salon Pedicure Kit.
~ Schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning. Foot baths are the cleanest.
~ Don’t shave your legs prior to getting a pedicure.
Smooth calluses. Soak feet in warm water for 5 minutes. When eliminating the build-up of dead skin on the heel and ball of the foot, ensure you or the pedicurist uses a pumice stone or foot file. Do not use a razor!
Trimming toenails. Use TOEnail clippers with a straight edge. Ensure the nail is cut straight across. Using other tools can increase your chances of getting ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails. Attempting to remove ones that are not infected can increase your chances of infection. See your podiatrist for care.
File for style. Emery boards work best for smoothing the edges of the nails. Ensure you bring your own to the salon since emery boards are porous and can carry germs.
Clean beneath the nails. Run a wooden or rubber manicure stick underneath them to remove hidden crud.
Moisturize your soles. Apply emollient-enriched lotion to maintain the proper moisture balance of your feet, or a one-step exfoliating/moisturizing cream.
Cuticle care. Use a rubber cuticle stick to push back cuticles. Do not cut them since cuticles are barriers that protect against infection.
Polish Up. Use nail polish if toenails are healthy, and remove it regularly with a non-acetone based remover. If your nails are discolored at all, this indicates a fungal infection. Do not apply nail polish if you suspect you have a fungal infection, it will seal in moisture facilitating growth of the infection.
A good foot hygiene regimen should involve regular pedicures to prevent the build up of dry skin and painful calluses. As the holidays approach and you participate in Secret Santa exchanges, why not give someone the gift of a pedicure? Or better yet, a pedicure set to take with them the next time they treat their feet!
Information Provided by the American Podiatric Medical Association
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