Warmer weather is finally here (at least in NYC) and sandal season is upon us. And if you’ve been neglecting your regular pedicures then you may want to try to get your feet sandal ready now. During the winter season our feet can get dry from the freezing temperatures and keeping them moisturized can be a difficult task. Winter weather can be unkind to our skin and with our feet carrying the weight of our entire body then can use a little TLC. Skyy Hadley, beauty expert, celebrity manicurist and owner of As “U” Wish Nail Spa, shares a few insider tips on how to get your feet summer-ready in no time!
Rehydrate and prevent your heels from cracking…
· In order to get feet ready for the warmer months, it is important to add moisture back into the heels and skin that have become dehydrated from the winter months.
· Milk pedicures will save the day. Mix a half cup of hot water with one cup of milk and add a spoonful of sugar – this will moisturize and prevent calluses. Soak feet for at least 10 minutes.
· Working a foot scrub into your heels is a great way to remove dead skin. Avoid using pumice stones since they trap bacteria and try using a diamond file instead.
· After feet are fully exfoliated, rinse, moisturize with a non-greasy lotion, and begin painting.
· Shea Butter, light oil, or Vaseline can be used to moisturize the heels and help prevent cracking.
· If you have blisters, leave them for the professionals (you’ll end up doing more harm than good if you try to pop them).
Ensure long-lasting color and shine…
· A clear top coat is your best friend. Be sure to apply a top coat on the third day of your pedicure (or manicure)
· Never use a protein enriched and strengthener product together. Using both will cause your polish to crack. Try to only apply a nail protein to bare nails
· Apply a cuticle oil to the base of your toenails (or even when they are already polished), focusing around the cuticle area to hydrate and bring moisture into the skin, helping the polish last longer.
How often to get a pedicure…
· You can never care for your feet too often, but it isn’t necessary for weekly pedicures either. Once every 2 weeks is sufficient during the warmer months.
How do you get and keep your feet sandal ready for summer?