You've mastered the art of false tanning, ordered your summer wardrobe and booked in your usual summer highlights, but the last (and perhaps the worst) beauty chore is still to come - tackling your poor, uncared for feet.
If you're anything like me, the thought of baring your feet in summer sandals before you've had chance to prep them is enough to make you shudder. After months of hiding them away in boots and opaque tights, getting your feet sandal-ready isn't the most glamorous of jobs but put in a little effort now and the rewards will pay off throughout the summer.
Neaten up your nails
If you're rocking an old, chipped polish it's time to clean it off. Use a conditioning nail polish remover and cotton pad to wipe away traces of polish. Dark nail polishes can leave your nails looking a funky shade of yellow. Yuk! Wipe a fresh wedge of lemon across your nails which will naturally brighten up your nail bed. Any additional discolouration or change in shape could be a sign of a fungal infection, in which case, you'll need to visit your doctor for appropriate treatment. Use nail clippers to cut your toe nails straight across and gently file to smooth off any sharp edges. Finish by pushing your cuticles back and applying a nail and cuticle oil to promote healthy nail growth.
Tackle tough skin
My biggest concern when it comes to baring my feet is the dry skin that seems to build up around the sides of my foot and on my heel. It's no use slapping moisturiser on as it won't penetrate the tough skin if you don't give things a helping hand. My feet are pretty tough so I recently used Scholl's Instant Hard Skin Remover to banish the build up. The remover, which features safe blades, effectively and safely removes thick build-up. It may sound a little scary, but I noticed a dramatic difference after one use. I used this alongside its Hard Skin Softening Cream, which features salicylic and lactic acid and my feet are the softest they have been in a long time.
Re-hydrate
Re-hydrate your feet with a luxe feeling cream. Don't waste time applying your everyday moisturiser as dry feet require a much richer formula. For an intensive treatment, melt some petroleum jelly, apply to your feet in the evening and throw on a pair of cotton socks before hitting the sack. It may not look glam, but your feet will be super-soft the following morning and it's much cheaper than an expensive spa foot repair treatment.
Pick a pretty polish
No summer toes are complete without a bold new polish. I adore corals, hot pinks or pretty patterns on my toenails to show off my new sandals. Whatever your favourite hue, treat your feet to a sweet new shade. Apply a basecoat to avoid discolouration and a topcoat to help your polish last. Want something that will stick around a little longer? Try a chip-proof Shellac gel manicure which will last for around 3 weeks.
