Foot Care DIY Treats

If our feet could speak, what would they say?

“We’re so cramped in these tight, pointy shoes, we’re nearly numb.” “These shoes smell so bad it’s embarrassing.” “We’ve got corns everywhere and we ache.” If our feet could speak, they’d probably complain, and loudly. Our feet allow us to run, walk, jump and skip, taking us wherever we need to go. So what do we do in return? Abuse them! Instead, we should honor our feet, first with basic foot care and wearing appropriate shoes, then by giving them the occasional pampering they deserve. Try the following simple, DIY treatments for naturally pampered feet.

Do-It-Yourself Pedicure

Aim to set aside one hour each week (or as often as you can) to properly treat your feet—not only will you get softer, healthier feet, but it’s also incredibly relaxing. Gather all of the necessary supplies beforehand to avoid getting up and dripping water all over the house.

Step 1: A footbath is often just as relaxing or stimulating as a full-body bath—feet are one of the most receptive parts of the body. To your foot tub, add enough hot or cold water (or herbal tea of your choice) to cover your ankles. Add a few drops of tea tree essential oil to disinfect and a squirt of your favorite liquid soap or shower gel; mix. Soak your feet for 5 to 10 minutes to cleanse and soften calluses. Use this time to scrub dirty toenails and soles, too.

Step 2: After soaking, gently remove calluses with a pediwand, rasp or stone. File any corns down with an emery board. Dry feet and legs when finished.

Step 3: Use a natural exfoliant to scrub off any leftover rough skin on your lower legs, ankles and feet. It feels fantastic and smells great, too. Rinse, then dry legs and feet with a coarse towel.

Step 4: Coax back cuticles and trim any that are ragged. Trim toenails straight across rather than rounded at the corners so the white free edge is almost even with the top of the toe. File toenails to smooth any jagged edges.

Step 5: Apply foot lotion, oil or cream, and massage in thoroughly for 2 to 3 minutes on each foot. Afterward, apply your favorite powder to your legs and feet using a large puff or fluff brush for fragrance and preventing perspiration.