During the summer most of us have a habit of walking around barefoot or wearing high heels for a night out, which can all result in rough feet. Not only tough, dry skin on your feet looks cosmetically ugly, but it can also be a sign of health issues. It is known that taking care of your feet helps with back, hip and knee problems. You may even have heard of reflexology – a method which benefits the internal organs by applying pressure to certain points on the feet (and hands and ears). All of this proves us how important feet and their body function are. The problem of rough can mostly be taken care of at home, with natural remedies, but, in case of failing to improve your condition, you may need a professional help. But, before visiting physician, try some of these options.
Soak
It’s important to keep in mind that exaggerating with soaking may not only not help with your condition, but lead to contra effects. Due to the fact that the heat reduces the moisture in the skin, long baths will contribute to the development of the dryness of the skin. Limit your soaking to three times a week for 15 minutes. There are many recipes considering this option, you can choose between mixing warm water with: baking soda and vinegar, lemon juice, Epsom salt, white vinegar, mild soap…
Exfoliate
This method includes removing the top dead layer of the skin. First, soak your feet in lukewarm water for about 10-15 minutes, after which you’ll take any kind of (clean) stiff brush and exfoliate. After exfoliating, you will treat the underlying layer of the skin.
Moisturize
After exfoliation, the dead skin layer is removed and it’s time to treat the underlying healthy layer. Use an alcohol-free product to moisturize right after soaking or showering for about 10-15 minutes. There are two types of moisturizers, both of them equally beneficial for the skin.
The first type is the moisturizers that work in a way that they trap the moisture in our skin, not allowing it to evaporate thus preventing the skin from drying out. Olive oil is a natural remedy that works in this way and is very likely to be found in your kitchen.
The second type is the moisturizers which are absorbed by the skin, penetrating deep inside of it and providing the necessary moisture. One of the natural products that work this way is coconut oil. Being full of beneficial properties, such as having antibacterial and antifungal effects, Coconut oil is perfect for your feet.
Don’t underestimate the power of socks!
Besides keeping our feet warm, socks are really important when it comes to moisturizing too. After showering, soaking and applying moisturizer, it’s important to put on cotton socks which will save you from slipping and falling all over the apartment. Furthermore, they allow the breathing of your feet as well as drying off if the feet get sweaty.
Nessie L.B.