How To Get Prettier, Fresher Feet—Because Sandal Season Is Here
This way to picture-perfect feet.
For most of us, there’s nothing quite like the summer season to remind us that our feet—particularly their appearance—matter, especially as we prepare to trade our sneakers and closed-in shoes for breezy sandals and beach-ready flip-flops. And if you’re the type who tends to overlook foot care, you might be surprised to see that your once pretty feet are now showing signs of neglect: from calluses to cracked heels and even discolored nails.
No need to fret, though: We’ve rounded up some of the most common foot problems that can hinder you from baring your feet, as well as the easy fixes you can do with the help of tried-and-tested products from our go-to foot care brand, Footlogix, the world’s first and only pediceutical foot care line.
Ready to literally put your best foot forward? (In sexy sandals, no less!) Read on.
The Problem: Calluses and/or rough skin
Callus is a term used for the thickened or hardened part of the skin, usually in an area that’s constantly subjected to friction. It can be uncomfortable especially if it builds up in size, and is definitely not pretty.
To remove small calluses and other rough patches, start by soaking your feet in warm water for around 10 minutes. Then use a foot file gently over the area, repeating the procedure every day until the buildup is sloughed off. (It’s better to do it gradually than in one go.) Don’t forget to moisturize afterwards with a urea-infused cream to soften the skin. Urea, a naturally-occurring substance found in the skin, is known for increasing moisture by dissolving the horny substance (keratin) holding the top layer of skin cells. For big calluses, though, it’s best to see a podiatrist for safe removal.
Here are some products you might want to try:
This urea-rich softening treatment penetrates deep into skin to soften calluses, toenails, and cuticles.
Apart from treating dry, rough, sandpaper-like skin, it’s also formulated with anti-microbial properties to address and prevent fungal infections.
Used by the pros, this lightweight, double-sided stainless steel file can be used multi-directionally without tearing the skin.
Another pro tool to exfoliate your feet, this comes encased in a contoured rubber handle for an easy grip.
The Problem: Sweat and odor
Embarrassed by your sweaty feet? Instead of hiding them in socks and closed shoes all day (which can only make your condition worse), give them time to breathe and make sure they’re always clean and dry.
Some tips: After your daily bath, dry the skin in between your toes thoroughly with a towel. Avoid wearing closed shoes without socks, as the socks absorb sweat from your feet, preventing the buildup of too much moisture. It also helps to use antiperspirant products such as the Footlogix Sweaty Feet Formula, which is infused with Dermal Infusion Technology® that acts as an astringent to reduce sweating.
Aside from its antiperspirant properties, this also has oak bark and sage, which deliver natural antimicrobial action.
This easy-to-use spray has tea tree oil to neutralize odor and menthol to cool the skin and leave a refreshing scent.
The Problem: Dry skin and/or cracked heels
Extreme heat and cold, as well as constant friction, can dry out your feet, especially your heels. Aside from resulting in flaking and discomfort, cracked heels can also be painful and may lead to infections.
The obvious fix? Regular hydration. After bathing, make sure to apply a urea-rich lotion or cream all over your dry feet, particularly on your soles and heels. If you have extremely dry skin, getting a professional foot spa and scrub is ideal in order to slough off the dead skin and allow your hydrators to penetrate more effectively. At night, moisturize again before donning a pair of fresh socks to seal in the moisture while you sleep.
This deeply hydrates and smoothens very dry skin with its urea-rich formula. It’s non-greasy and fast-acting, with visible results seen in as little as 24 hours.
Proven to treat and moisture severely cracked skin (thanks to its Dermal Infusion Technology®), this also has evening primrose oil to restore the skin structure and urea to hydrate.
The Problem: Fungal nail infection
A common infection of the nails—especially toenails—a fungal problem can cause your nail bed to become discolored, and may lead to thickening and cracking. (Definitely not sexy!)
The key to preventing this dilemma is good hygiene, which includes washing feet daily and drying properly, regularly cleaning your shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, such as bathrooms and gyms. As for the treatment, you can use a topical anti-fungal formula to target the fungus and restore your nail’s health. It’s best to avoid using nail polish during this time, though, to help your nail heal faster.
This effective anti-fungal spray contains Clotrimazole to eliminate fungus under the nail. Plus: It has avocado oil and panthenol to transform discolored nails and restore them to optimum health.
For other concerns and for customized skin care recommendations, you can book a virtual dermatological consultation with Dr. Maximin Navarro, Bella Pelle Philippines’ resident dermatologist and a Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow, here.
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SHOP OTHER PRODUCTS:
Footlogix Peeling Skin Formula, P1,400 |
Froika Baby Liquid Talc, P1,700 |
Neostrata Problem Dry Skin Cream, P2,500 |
Froika Froicalm Cream, P1,850 |
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