How to Get your Feet Pretty for Summer

Are you ready for summer? Going to wear sandals or go barefoot? If so, don’t forget about your feet. Your feet work hard all day long and deserve some pampering. Check out our 10-step guide to get your feet pretty for summer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Remove polish from toes using a non-acetone remover. Avoid acetone removers since they can dry out the nails and cuticles.
2. Using a pumice stone or foot file, slough off any rough spots or calluses you may have. Never cut at calluses or other troublesome foot problems such as bunions or corns. If these are a problem, make an appointment with a podiatrist (foot doctor). He or she can help you decide the best way to remove them. For really rough feet try an exfoliating foot scrub to soften them. If you prefer, you can make a mixture of olive oil and raw sugar, and apply to feet.
3. Soak feet for at least 10 minutes in a tub filled with warm soapy water or your favorite bath salts. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil such as tea tree to the water for an added treat. Tea tree oil is also excellent for itchy dry feet.
4. Clean under nails using the pointed end of orange stick. While you’re at it, gently push back each cuticle using the slanted end of the orange stick. Never cut cuticles since it can lead to a serious infection.
5. Thoroughly rinse feet and pat dry with a soft towel.
6. Apply a moisturizing cream or foot lotion and massage into feet starting at the bottom and working your way to the top of the foot. Don’t forget in between your toes and your ankles.
7. Using nail clippers, trim toe nails straight across and then gently file the edges into a square shape with an emery board. A square shape will help avoid ingrown nail problems. Be sure to file in one direction only to avoid weakening the nails.
8. Apply a coat of clear base-coat polish and allow to dry. A base coat will prevent dark colors such as red, from yellowing nails.
9. Next, apply a coat or two of your favorite shade of polish. Allow to Dry.
10. Finally, apply a clear top-coat polish to help seal the color and give it extra shine. For added wear, extend the top-coat over and under the tip of the nail.

Tips & Warnings

• To keep feet pretty throughout the summer, pay a little extra attention to feet at least once a week while in the shower or bath using the steps above. After the shower or before bedtime, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to feet and slip into a pair of socks for extra softness.
• If you’re feet are going to be exposed to the sun this summer, be sure to apply a sun block of at least a 15 to your feet. Happy Pampering!