Summer’s always all sorts of fun; beaches, bonfires, and endless sunbathing and long walks! We have to admit, it feels good to leave the shoes at home and run our toes in the sand instead, dawdle in the water and cool down from the crisp summer heat.
It’s that time of the year again when we can drop the layers and don our best beach outfits. Summer’s always all sorts of fun; beaches, bonfires, and endless sunbathing and long walks! We have to admit, it feels good to leave the shoes at home and run our toes in the sand instead, dawdle in the water and cool down from the crisp summer heat.
But are you sure you’re feet can take you on all summer long? Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy and pretty this season!
Barely Barefoot
Sure it’s fun to feel the water on our toes, walk around uninhibited by uncomfortable shoes we wear for the rest of the year, but going barefoot could just be as detrimental as nine inch heels if you’re not careful. Exposing your feet too much can cause sunburns and infections. Limit bare feet by wearing arch-supportive flip flops or open toe sandals around the pool, beach front, or even in your hotel. It may be a good idea to ask your doctor for some example of good flip flops with arch supports.
Remember to apply sunscreen on your feet as you do for the rest of your body.
Hydrate
Keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day not only improves general health, it keeps your skin from drying out and your feet from swelling. Sausage fingers are not IN this summer!
Foot Support
It’s understandable how people would naturally opt for lightweight footwear during summer, but it’s better to alternate wearing footwear throughout the day. It will prevent cracked skin, blisters, hard skin. Blisters usually appear when skin rubs together, this can be caused by wearing flip flops with ‘thongs’. When you get a blister, stop your flimsy hands from touching it. Also, don’t cover it with plaster and instead, just leave it to naturally dry.
Furthermore, keep your feet happy by giving it ample circulation. The occasional ankle flex, toe wiggles, and calf stretches can help keep your feet going.
Pamper!
Lastly, summer means lots of outdoor activities and open-toed shoes. Keep your feet clean and pretty by giving it a soak, a massage, and a pedi. It doesn’t mean you have to spend to get pampered. It’s very basic so you can easily do it yourself.
After a long walk, treat your feet to a cold water soak mixed with tea-tree oil, rosemary leaves, and milk. Soaking can reduce swelling, soften hard skin, and reduce the risks of infection. When the soak is done, use lotion or balm on your hands to massage your feet. It’s practically just long stroking motions starting with the sole of one foot with both thumbs. Move from the toes towards the heel, applying more pressure on the arch and the ball of the foot.
Lastly, before you go out for another party, don’t forget to prettify you nails with a quick pedi! Make sure to trim your nails down. Cut your nails square and don’t cut the cuticles as these help prevent infections. Make sure to use sterile nail tools, especially in salons, as these can give you not only bacterial and fungal infections, but even Hepatitis B and C. There are also available anti-fungal nail polishes, infused with tea tree oil and undercylenic acid, in a number of playful, luxurious colors!
When you’re all groomed and ready, pick out your favorite shade of summer and paint your nails ready for the season!
