Feet Care 101

Most times we are concerned about our faces and skin and pay less attention to the feet. Just like every other part of the body, the feet need utmost care. If left uncatered for, the feet will turn out to be an eyesore. The following are 7 feet care practices that you should include in your schedule:

1. Washing

The feet is prone to bacterial and fungal infections since it is cloaked in socks and shoes for a major part of the day, or exposed to dust and grime. The skin between the toes is a perfect place for bacterial and fungal infections to flourish if it is not washed and cleansed properly. It is therefore very important to soap and wash your feet once every day for proper cleansing.

2. Keeping Them Dry

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection of the feet which causes itching, burning, peeling of the skin, and in some cases may also cause painful blisters. Dampness is a perfect environment for fungal infections like athlete’s foot to thrive. Drying the feet, especially the area between the toes is very essential after every wash.

3. Moisturising

You should moisturise your feet too. Cocoa butter or petroleum jelly can be good options. Lack of moisture can leave your feet skin dry, scaly and chapped. The chapped skin can then become extremely dry and hard especially on the heels. This area can then become a magnet for dirt and grime which will start sticking to it. Chapped heels do not just have an unseemly appearance but can also be painful. Make sure you apply a generous dose of moisturizing agent on your feet every day after washing your feet.

4. Exfoliate

Exfoliate your feet. Moisturising dead skin will not serve any purpose. It is important to remove the dead layer first by exfoliation once every month. This can be done with pumice stones or loofas, but mildly. It also helps remove the dirt and grime stuck to the hardened dead skin. Follow it with a hydrating moisturiser and leave it overnight.cScrubbing can also be done with the mixture of sugar and olive oil, with a few drops of mint or tea tree oil added to it for anti-bacterial properties.

5. Occasional Pampering

Leave your feet soaked in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes twice a month. This helps soften the skin. Then rub the feet mildly, dry them thoroughly and apply a Vitamin E rich cold cream. If your feet are susceptible to infections and inflammations, use an anti bacterial cream.

You can also use a mashed banana mixed with lemon juice as a hydrating mask. Apply it all over your feet and wash it with warm water after 20 minutes. Apply moisturising foot cream or petroleum jelly before going out and when you go to sleep. It is also very important to keep yourself hydrated so drink plenty of water for the skin.

6. Wearing Socks

Wearing socks is not only important to protect you from the cold but also to protect your feet against environmental damage. Socks shield the feet against dust and dirt which might stick to the cream applied to the feet. They also protect against UV radiation.

7. Wearing Comfortable Shoes

Always remember to wear shoes that you are comfortable in. Avoid wearing tight shoes as this may lead to skin infections or sores. You should also avoid wearing high heels regularly as this may cause damage to the tissues and ligaments of your feet.

Share on: