Summer is the perfect time to show off your feet in sandals, flip-flops, or barefoot. But if your feet are dry, cracked, or callused, you may feel less than confident about flaunting them. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share with you some practical tips and easy-to-find products to elevate your foot care routine and attain those baby soft, smooth feet you’ve always wanted.
Table of Contents
Why Foot Care Matters
Before we dive into the tips, let’s briefly discuss why foot care matters. The skin on our feet is naturally dry, unlike the skin on the rest of the body. Without proper care, our feet can become excessively dry, leading to peeling, cracking, and even pain.
Moreover, our feet are exposed to various factors that can damage them, especially in summer. These include:
- Sun exposure: The sun’s UV rays can cause sunburns, pigmentation, and premature aging on our feet, just like on any other part of our body.
- Heat and humidity: The high temperatures and moisture in summer can make our feet sweat more, which can lead to dehydration, odor, and fungal infections.
- Friction and pressure: Wearing shoes that don’t fit well or walking barefoot can cause friction and pressure on our feet, which can result in blisters, calluses, and corns.
All these factors can make our feet look and feel rough, dry, and unhealthy. That’s why it’s important to take good care of them and prevent these problems from happening.
The 4-Step Guide to Getting Smooth Feet in Summer
Now, onto the top tips for achieving those coveted smooth feet in summer!
Regular Exfoliation
Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells, promotes skin renewal, and helps your feet absorb moisturizers better. It also helps prevent and reduce calluses and corns by smoothing out the rough areas.
You can exfoliate your feet in different ways:
- Use a foot scrub: A foot scrub is a product that contains abrasive particles that gently scrub away the dead skin cells. You can use a foot scrub once or twice a week in the shower or bath. Simply massage it onto your wet feet in circular motions, focusing on the heels and balls of your feet. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
- Use a foot file: A foot file is a tool that has a rough surface that scrapes off the dead skin cells. You can use a foot file once or twice a week after soaking your feet in warm water for 10 minutes. Gently rub the file over the dry areas of your feet until they feel smooth. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
- Use a foot peel: A foot peel is a product that contains acids that dissolve the dead skin cells. You can use a foot peel once every few weeks or months depending on how dry your feet are. A foot peel usually comes in the form of a sock-like mask that you wear on your feet for an hour or so. After removing the mask, rinse off with warm water and pat dry. The peeling process will start in a few days and last for up to two weeks. During this time, avoid using any other exfoliating products on your feet.
Moisturize Daily
Daily moisturization is crucial for keeping your feet soft and smooth. Moisturizing helps replenish the moisture lost from your feet due to sun exposure, heat, humidity, and sweating. It also helps create a protective barrier on your skin that prevents further water loss and damage.
You can moisturize your feet in different ways:
- Use a foot cream: A foot cream is a product that contains hydrating ingredients that nourish and soften your skin. You can use a foot cream every day after washing or exfoliating your feet. Apply it generously all over your feet, especially on the heels and toes. Massage it gently until it’s fully absorbed.
- Use a foot mask: A foot mask is a product that provides deep hydration to your skin. You can use a foot mask once or twice a week or whenever your feet need extra moisture. A foot mask usually comes in the form of a sock-like mask that you wear on your feet for 15 to 20 minutes. After removing the mask, massage the remaining essence into your skin until it’s fully absorbed.
- Use a foot oil: A foot oil is a product that contains nourishing oils that moisturize and protect your skin. You can use a foot oil every day or every other day depending on how dry your feet are. Apply a few drops of oil onto your feet and massage it gently until it’s fully absorbed. You can also add a few drops of oil to your foot bath or foot scrub for extra benefits.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can lead to calluses and other foot problems. Invest in well-fitting, comfortable shoes to keep your feet healthy. Here are some tips to choose the right shoes for your feet:
- Measure your feet: Your feet can change in size and shape over time, so it’s important to measure them before buying new shoes. The best time to measure your feet is in the afternoon or evening when they are at their largest. Use a ruler or a measuring tape to measure the length and width of your feet. Then, compare your measurements with the shoe size chart of the brand you’re buying from.
- Try them on: Always try on shoes before buying them. Make sure they fit snugly but not too tightly. There should be about half an inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. You should also be able to wiggle your toes freely. Walk around in the shoes for a few minutes and check for any discomfort or rubbing.
- Choose breathable materials: Shoes made from breathable materials such as leather, canvas, or mesh can help prevent your feet from sweating and overheating. Avoid shoes made from synthetic materials such as plastic or rubber as they can trap moisture and cause odor and infections.
- Alternate your shoes: Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Give them some time to air out and dry between wears. This can help prevent odor, bacteria, and fungus from growing in your shoes.
Protect Your Feet
When stepping out, especially in summer, protect your feet with sunscreen. The sun’s UV rays can cause sunburns, pigmentation, and premature aging on your feet, just like on any other part of your body. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher all over your feet, especially the tops and fronts of ankles. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
And always wear clean, dry socks to prevent fungal infections. Socks can help absorb sweat and keep your feet dry and comfortable. Choose socks made from natural fibers such as cotton or wool that are breathable and moisture-wicking. Avoid socks made from synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester that can trap moisture and cause odor and infections.
Best Products for Smooth Feet
Incorporating the right products into your foot care routine can make all the difference. Here are some top picks:
Exfoliators
The Body Shop Peppermint Reviving Pumice Foot Scrub is an excellent option for removing hard skin and leaving your feet feeling refreshed and smooth.
Moisturizers
O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet Foot Cream is a high-quality, affordable cream specifically formulated for feet. It’s excellent at hydrating dry, cracked skin.
Foot Masks
Baby Foot Exfoliation Foot Peel has gained a cult following for its ability to exfoliate deeply and leave the feet incredibly smooth.
Foot Files
A good foot file is essential in any foot care routine. Amope Pedi Perfect Electronic Foot File is an excellent choice for its ease of use and effectiveness in removing hard skin.
Foot Oils
Burt’s Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream is a natural product that contains lemon oil, beeswax, and almond oil that moisturize and protect your cuticles and nails.
By incorporating these tips and product recommendations into your routine, you can achieve soft, smooth feet in summer. Remember, consistency is key in foot care. It might take a bit of time to see results, but with regular care, your feet can become baby soft.
DIYs for Smooth Feet
If you want to save some money and time, you can also make your own foot care products at home with some natural ingredients. Here are some DIYs that you can try to get smooth feet:
Sugar scrub
- Mix some sugar with olive oil or coconut oil and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
- Massage your feet with this scrub for a few minutes and rinse off with warm water.
- This will help remove dead skin cells and moisturize your feet.
Oatmeal soak
- Soak your feet in a basin of warm water with some oatmeal and baking soda.
- This will help soften your feet and soothe any irritation or inflammation.
- You can also add some honey or milk for extra nourishment.
Banana mask
- Mash a ripe banana and apply it to your feet.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes and wash off with cold water.
- This will help hydrate and smooth your feet.
Lemon juice
- Squeeze some lemon juice and rub it on your feet.
- Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
- This will help brighten and exfoliate your feet.
Try these DIYs and see the difference in your feet. You can also use them regularly to maintain your smooth feet.
The Wrap
Having smooth and soft feet is not only a beauty goal, but also a health one. Cracked heels and dry skin can cause pain, infection, and discomfort. In this article, you learned how to take care of your feet in summer with some simple steps that you can do at home.
You learned how to exfoliate, moisturize, and pamper your feet with natural remedies, foot masks, and pedicures. You also learned how to prevent foot problems and keep your feet smooth and beautiful all year round. Follow these tips and enjoy your smooth and soft feet this summer!