Foot Care

Our feet are the probably the most overworked and underappreciated part of our body. They are constantly carrying us to and from work, on our endless shopping trips and wherever our hectic (or even not so hectic) lives take us. On a never-ending crusade to deliver us from pillar to post, our reliable feet are prone to aches and pains, blisters and sores as we use them constantly, without giving a second thought for their care.

Taking good care of your feet is actually a simple thing to do. It doesn’t take up that much time to build a good foot care routine, and with just a few simple measures you can finally make your tired feet feel truly appreciated.

A good foot care routine is a great way to avoid problems such as corns, calluses, infections, dry skin, athlete's foot, cracked heels, heel pain, and general aches and pains.You know, the adage says "Prevention is better than cure".

The most important factor to consider when it comes to the health of your feet is your choice of footwear. While we all want to keep up with modern fashion and styles it is vital that you listen to what your feet are telling you. Never try to squeeze your feet into a pair of shoes that are too small, just because you love them. (everyone is probably guilty of that one!) Whatever footwear you choose, it needs to fit correctly. Take advantage of a high street store's foot measuring service and always shop for shoes in the afternoon rather than the mornings. As the day goes on, your feet tend to swell a little so trying on shoes in the afternoon will take this into consideration, rather than spoiling your enjoyment when you decide to wear them on a special occasion.

Revive your tired feet with a weekly foot soak. Simply add a couple of drops of natural Tea Tree oil or peppermint oil to a bowl of warm water and allow yourself to relax for ten to fifteen minutes. Pat your feet dry, making sure you pay particular attention to all of those hard to reach areas between the toes, to avoid fungal problems. The natural oils will help to relax and cool down your feet and the aroma will help you to relax and unwind.

Exfoliate your feet as often as possible. To keep feet looking and feeling fresh and to prevent calluses it is really imperative that you use a foot scrub and proprietary foot file to remove any dead skin cells. Massage a specially formulated foot scrub into your feet using small circular motions, not forgetting to rinse well afterwards. When using a foot file on hard skin areas, remember to file gently and without too much pressure.

Moisturise your feet every single day (no excuses). Use a foot cream or lotion that is specifically made for feet to give them a quick treat. Most contain such natural oils as mint to help cool and rejuvenate. If you can, take the time to massage the lotion in well, paying particular attention to any dry or cracked skin areas.

When you have healthy feet it shows, and you can feel it. Those daily aches and pains will disappear and as soon as the sun shows itself (for those few precious days of UK Summer) you have perfectly prepared feet just ready to slip into those strappy little sandals.