When it comes to nail care, many of us are meticulous about our fingernails while our toenails often take a backseat. However, just like our hands, our feet deserve some love and attention too, especially during the colder months when they are snugly hidden in socks and boots. Whether you’re a pedicure enthusiast or someone who’s sparingly indulgent, understanding the art of foot care is essential.
Interestingly, renowned dermatologist and nail health expert Dr. Dana Stern sheds light on how often you should treat your toes with a pedicure. Spoiler alert: it’s more often than you might think, and it’s not just about aesthetics.
First things first, let’s talk toenail polish. If you’re like me, who occasionally swipes on a color for a special occasion, and then forgets about it, here’s something important. Dr. Stern advises against keeping polish on for more than four weeks. Overly prolonged wear can lead to keratin granulations, which appear as white patches on your nails. The solution? A simple three-week polish removal routine, ideally using a gentle, hydrating remover like Dr. Dana’s Non-Acetone Nail Polish Remover. And if you’re a fan of gel pedicures, you might want to reconsider, given their potential for nail damage over time.
When booking your next pedicure, consider opting for a dry or waterless treatment. Not only is a dry pedicure faster and more sanitary (warm water can breed bacteria), but it’s also less likely to chip your polish. Our nails are like sponges, absorbing water and expanding during a soak, which can lead to quicker polish deterioration once they dry and contract.
A surprisingly overlooked yet crucial step in foot care is thoroughly washing your feet in the shower. As Dr. Stern points out, merely letting soap suds trickle down isn’t enough. Feet requires dedicated cleaning, particularly between the toes and on the soles, to prevent infections and unpleasant odors.
Winter weather can be harsh on our skin, and our feet are no exception. Hangnails on toenails, just like on fingernails, are common in dry conditions. To prevent infections that can arise from torn hangnails, Dr. Stern recommends using a cuticle oil on your toenails. Options like Kure Bazaar Cuticle Oil or The Manucurist Green Oil are excellent for keeping the cuticle area hydrated and healthy.
Lastly, don’t neglect the skin on your feet. The skin here is thicker, especially on the soles, making certain ingredients more effective. Dr. Stern suggests a foot cream containing urea, an ingredient excellent at removing dead skin and preventing calluses. Urea-based creams like The Inkey List Urea Moisturizer or Ebanel Urea Cream offer a gentler and more hydrating alternative to more abrasive treatments.
In conclusion, foot care and pedicures aren’t just about looking good in open-toed shoes; they are about maintaining overall foot health. Regular pedicures, proper toenail care, and the right products can make all the difference in keeping your feet happy, healthy, and ready for those impromptu pilates classes or cozy evenings at home. So, next time you consider skipping that pedicure appointment, remember that your feet deserve as much attention as the rest of your body.
