Getting a pedicure is an excellent and well-known way to provide yourself with well-deserved self-care. If you are unable to get a professional pedicure, you may consider giving yourself one. In the article below we have provided some tips on how to give yourself a pedicure, as well as things to avoid. If you have any questions or would like to speak to a podiatrist about foot wellness tips, Best Foot Doctor is here to help. Give our offices a call to schedule an appointment. Our staff is also equipped to provide nail trimming and treatments.
The “Do”s of A Pedicure
- Do cut your toenails straight across. Leave just a little of the white at the end of the nail and do not round or trim corners. This helps prevent ingrown toenails.
- Do use moisturizing creams on your feet. This will help prevent hard and cracked heels and other conditions that arise from dry skin.
- If you are using nail polish, do pay attention to the ingredients. Limit the use of nail polish with toxic ingredients.
- So use nail polish in thin coats. This provides better coverage. Try not to get any nail polish on your skin and remove it as soon as possible if that happens.
- Do take some time without nail polish to let your toenails breathe.
The “Don’t”s of A Pedicure
- Don’t round your toenails like it is often done with fingernails. The rounded edges can cause ingrown toenails.
- Don’t over-file your calluses. When using a pumice stone or other tool to file calluses, be sure to file in just one direction. Overdoing the filing can cause the skin to grow back stronger and thicker as it heals.
- Don’t use dirty or old tools. Keep your pedicure tools clean and sharp. Replace them as necessary to keep your feet in their best shape.
- Don’t leave your nail polish on for more than two weeks. Old nail polish can dehydrate your nails and cause them to crack and break.
- Don’t push back or trim cuticles. These common practices can lead to infections around the nail.
Tips for A Better Pedicure
- Soak your feet occasionally in Epsom salts to soften the skin and calluses.
- Scrub and exfoliate your feet. This helps remove dead skin and allows moisturizers to soak into the skin better.
- Foot massages can help improve blood flow and promote healing in your feet.
- Wear socks and shoes afterward. Walking around barefoot can cause your feet to dry out faster.
Foot Massagers and Reflexology: Improve Your Foot Health
Finding a Foot Doctor in the New York City (NYC) Area
If you are in the Queens, Manhattan, or Brooklyn areas of New York City (NYC), Best Foot Doctor has offices in your area. If you have any questions about how to give a DIY pedicure at home, give our staff a call today to schedule an appointment. We would be happy to hear your concerns and even assist in trimming toenails or calluses as needed.