Summer is for Sandals -- How to "Treat" Your Feet

I don't know about you, but as soon as the temperature gets above 60, I'm ready to start shopping for the latest in summer sandal fashion. However, there is nothing worse than seeing someone in cute strappy sandals who has not prepared her feet in terms of a pedicure.

 A pedicure is not only a great way to treat your feet it is also a great way to get ready for summer sandals. Pedicures are fun to have done in a professional salon but they can be very expensive and possibly risky too. Lately there have been reports that some salons do not properly disinfect the foot tubs and nail tools. This can leave you at risk for bacterial infections that in some cases can cause permanent scarring. If you prefer the professional pedicure to the do-it-yourself version, heed this advice: don't shave your legs within a 24-hour period both before and after your pedicure and ask your salon owner if the tubs and drains are properly disinfected with bleach after every customer. Additionally, ask if they clean filter screens daily.

For those who wish to perform their own pedicure, here is the five-step process complete with suggestions for soothing essential oil soaks and scrubs:

Step One: Soak and Relax. Inspect your feet carefully for any open cuts or sores. If you suffer from diabetes, your physician should monitor your foot care. Begin with a nice warm tub of clean water to soak your feet for at least 15 minutes. Add to your foot soak one cup of baking soda and 5 drops of either peppermint, eucalyptus or rosemary essential oil to help soften rough heels and calluses.

Step Two: Deep Clean. Have ready and available a natural bristle foot brush and pumice stone. To make a refreshing foot soap, add 10 drops each of lavender, peppermint and rosemary essential oils to a 8 oz. bottle of unscented liquid soap.

Step Three: Smooth your Feet. Use an already prepared salt scrub product. Rub your feet generously with the salt scrub, focusing on the heels.

Step Four: Moisturize. Rinse your feet with clean, warm water and pat dry with a soft towel. Massage a rich moisturizing cream into your feet paying special attention again to the heels and to the nails and cuticles. Good choices are foot care products with natural shea butter and/or jojoba oil.

Step Five: Trim Nails. It is easier to trim nails after your foot soak because the nails and cuticles are softer. Trim toe nails straight across with straight-edged toenail clippers. Carefully smooth sharp edges with an emery board. Carefully push back cuticles with an orangewood stick. Cuticles should not be cut as they serve to protect the nail from bacteria. Buff each nail for a natural look or use your favorite nail polish.

Now you are ready to slip your perfect feet into those airy sandals and walk on the beach or sun at the pool. Remember, your feet often get forgotten during the winter months and now is the time to really reward them for the hard work they do all year long.