How to Moisturize the Soles of Your Feet

Moisturize your feet regularly to reduce callouses from friction.

Dry skin frequently occurs on the soles of the feet. This can be dangerous because severe dryness can cause skin to crack and allow bacteria to enter the blood stream and cause infection. Dry feet can be painful, look unsightly and increase friction between your skin and your footwear. There are several things you can do to moisturize the soles of your feet.

Things You'll Need

• Foot basin
• Warm water
• 1/2 cup Epsom salts
• Foot file or pumice stone
• Towel
• Lotion
• Petroleum jelly
• Cotton socks

Instructions

1. Soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes in warm water mixed with 1/2 cup of Epsom salts. Dry them thoroughly and gently slough off dead skin with a pumice stone or foot file. Wipe your feet with the towel to remove loose skin, and then apply lotion to the soles of your feet. Rub it in before you put on your socks and shoes. Do this one time each week.

2. Wash and dry your feet before you go to bed. Apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly or foot lotion to your feet; however, do not rub it in. Put a pair of cotton socks on your feet and leave them covered overnight. The jelly or lotion will be absorbed by the skin leaving soft, moisturized feet the next morning.

3. Moisturize your skin from the inside out by drinking plenty of water. When you are properly hydrated, your urine will be pale-yellow or clear.

References

• U.S. Department of Human Services; National Institutes of Health; National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; Prevent Diabetes Problems; Keep Your Feet and Skin Healthy
• PedicuresandFootCare.com: Dry Feet? Cracked Feet? Read On...