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Having dry, reptilian feet may make you feel self-conscious, especially when you’re cuddling on the couch with your newest conquest. Rough heels and cracked skin detract from your polished toes and may make you embarrassed to wear sandals or cut-out heels. However, with regular maintenance you can tailor your pedicure process to help alleviate dry skin.
Exfoliation
Exfoliating rough skin with a mitt or having your pedicure technician use a pumice stone on calluses can reveal healthy and smooth-looking skin. Use firm pressure when using either a mitt or pumice stone, and consider using a lotion that contains granules that help buff away dry skin. Be forewarned, though: if you have ticklish feet, exfoliation may cause you to break out in a fit of giggles. If you’re getting a professional pedicure, let your technician know in advance if your feet are sensitive to the touch.
Paraffin Treatments
During your next pedicure, you may request a paraffin wax foot treatment, which helps moisturize your feet. The wax is heated in a tub until it is completely melted. You then dip your feet in, so they are completely coated in the wax. Typically, a technician will put booties on your feet to retain the heat as the wax dries. When the wax cools completely, a technician then slides it off your foot.
Deep Moisturizing Treatments
In between pedicures, you may want to try using a deep moisturizing cream specially designed for dry feet. These creams tend to have a thicker texture than ordinary lotion, which means they take longer to absorb. Apply a deep moisturizing treatment just before bed, and put clean socks on after applying the cream so you avoid staining your sheets or carpet. You’ll wake up with baby soft feet; just reapply the treatment when your feet start to feel rough.
Safety Considerations
If you have deep cracking on your feet or any open wounds, you may want to steer clear of getting a professional pedicure done until your feet heal. Even the tiniest break in the skin gives bacteria a way to enter your body, which can cause an infection. If you intend to save cash by performing a pedicure at home, make sure you disinfect your toenail clippers, and do not get overzealous when removing dry skin or calluses while exfoliating. You don’t want to end up taking off the top layer of your skin during your quest for smooth feet.
