How to Give Yourself a Perfect Pedicure

Splurge on expensive products with the money you will save by doing your pedicure yourself.

By doing your own pedicure, you can save money and avoid the health problems that are sometimes caused when dirty instruments are used in salons. Home pedicures are also the answer if you do not like having your feet touched by other people. You can achieve the perfect pedicure in the privacy of your own home with a few supplies and a little "me" time, about 30 minutes to an hour.

Things You'll Need

• Nail file and clippers
• Epsom salts
• Bowl
• Pumice
• Nail polish
• Nail polish remover
• Cotton balls
• Towel
• Sugar
• Olive oil
• Lotion

Instructions

1. Remove any old nail polish on your toenails by dipping cotton balls into the polish remover and rubbing them onto your nails.

2. Soak your feet in a bowl of warm water and Epsom salts for 10 minutes, then clip your toenails straight across to the desired length. File if necessary.

3. Combine equal parts sugar and olive oil. Massage into the bottom of your feet. Rinse and dry. Scrub the rough areas of your feet gently with the pumice stone. Apply moisturizing lotion to your feet and calves.

4. Apply nail polish to your toenails. Let dry for 15 to 20 minutes.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice different looks, such as a French manicure.

• Wearing socks for a few hours after applying lotion is a great way to soften tough skin.

• Avoid cutting into the sides of the nails when clipping; this causes ingrown nails.

References

• Kaboose: At Home Pedicure; Shandley McMurray
• Pedicure Center: Pedicure Tips

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Healthy Feet Blog: The 25 Best Pedicure Tips
• Women's Health: The Pedicure Tools That You Need; Alexis Farah