This time of year is the perfect time for pampering, not only will your feet be prepped for future sunny days, but treating your toes to some TLC will give you the pick-me-up you and your feet really deserve.
We rely on our feet to carry us around every single day, but sadly they’re often one of the most neglected parts of our body, that’s why it’s really important to keep on top of a regular foot care routine.
We’ve done the hard work for you and put together an easy step-by-step footcare guide, plus our top tips on how to keep our feet looking and feeling great.
Now more than ever, it’s really important to support small local businesses, so why not pop in to your local salon to see if they are selling DIY pedicure kits to use at home? Not only the perfect excuse for refreshing your nail varnish collections with spring-ready colours but you’ll be using spa-approved footcare products for a truly professional finish.
Although we love talking all things foot health, please follow this foot care guide with caution. If you have underlying health issues you must seek expert advice from a podiatrist or your GP. For expert advice on foot care, take a look at this NHS article here.
How to Give Yourself a Pedicure
Step 1: Soak Your Feet
Remove any old nail polish and then fill a bowl with warm water, add a few drops of baby oil and let your feet soak for five to 10 minutes. This will help soften up any hard skin, plus it’s a great way to relax with your favourite book. If you’re in the mood for a full pamper, why not enjoy a warm soak in the bath and use a good foot scrub to gently exfoliate your skin.
Once you’ve finished soaking, carefully dry your feet one at a time.
Top Tip: If you suffer from sore or sensitive feet, Epsom salts are great to soothe and calm your feet (lavender is our favourite!)
Step 2: Shape Your Nails
Start to trim your nails with clippers and then use a nail file to gradually shape and round off any rough edges. Add a little cuticle oil around your nails and very gently push back your cuticles. If you feel any hard skin across your heel or toes use a foot file or pumice to smooth your skin, then use a specialist cream to treat any cracked or sore skin around the heel. You can always soak a little bit of cuticle oil into rough heels to help smooth and soften your skin.
Top Tip: If you don’t have any cuticle oil to hand (honestly, who does?) you can always use a little bit of coconut oil, or even olive oil, in its place
Step 3: Moisturise and Massage
It wouldn’t be a pedicure without the foot massage! Apply a dollop of moisturiser into each of your feet, start with a small amount and gradually add more as you massage, don’t forget to work in between your toes. We love using peppermint foot cream to keep our toes nourished, especially after a day on our feet. Peppermint not only has lots of hydrating benefits for your skin but will keep your feet feeling fresh and rejuvenated.
Top Tip: If you have a willing partner, this would be an excellent opportunity for them to win some brownie points!
Step 4: Prep Your Toes
Remove any excess oil or moisturiser on or around your nails with a cotton bud, this will help give a smooth appearance to any polish you apply. Use some toe separators to make it easier to paint your nails.
Top Tip: Use twisted tissue as an alternative to toe separators, it’s a little easier and more comfortable to wear in between your toes.
Step 5: Paint Your Nails
Using a base coat will not only provide a protective barrier between the natural oils of your nails and the polish, but it will also give an even base for your chosen nail varnish.
When it comes to painting your nails, patience is key! Apply your polish in thin and even layers and build them up once they have dried. Finally, finish with a glossy layer of topcoat to prevent any chips and another drop of cuticle oil.
Top Tip: If you’re struggling to reach your toes, use a chair to prop up your foot and use a towel to protect the surface from any spillages.
Step 6: Aaand Relax!
Your nails will take up to 30 minutes to fully dry, so best put up your feet and start shopping for the best styles to show off your DIY pedicure in all its glory. Here are a few of our all-new and favourite sandals to get you inspired and prepped for the sunshine (not long now!)
