Put your best foot forward this summer with these simple tips

Got discoloured nails, bunions, warts or blisters? It’s time to get your feet looking great so they’re ready for the summer weather.

As we get older, we tend to let some things go, and one of the parts of our body that may get neglected are our feet.

Older people are more likely to see changes in their nails on their hands and feet, and common foot disorders include diabetic ulcers, ingrown nails, fungus, arthritis and corns and calluses.

Here’s how to make your feet look great for summer and get rid of those issues all year-round.

1. Stop blisters

If you get blisters every time you walk in new shoes, there are a number of ways to prevent this irritating and painful problem.

Some people swear by using clear non-chafe deodorant on the areas prone to blisters, while others believe a dab of petroleum jelly or a dust of baby powder will stop friction. The best thing to do is find a barrier that will stop your skin rubbing.

2. Get rid of plantar warts

Thanks to apple cider vinegar’s high acidity, it easily attacks the “flesh” that makes up the wart, killing the physical wart itself, and allowing it to peel naturally from the skin. This should take the virus with it, and it shouldn’t return. All you need to do is apply with a cotton pad daily and use a pumice stone to remove any dried skin so it can penetrate.

3. Cure cracked heels

Cracked heels are a very common problem and can become inflamed and itchy. To prevent cracks from becoming deeper and more painful, try using aloe vera and turmeric together.

Steps:

1. Crush 1 tsp of basil leaves into a paste
2. Add 1 tsp of turmeric powder and 1 tsp of cam to the gel of an aloe vera planet
3. Mix both the basil and the turmeric mixture together and apply to your heels
4. Leave for 10-15 minutes and wash off. Repeat daily as necessary.

4. Practice good foot hygiene

This may seem obvious but you need to make sure you keep your toenails trimmed and feet clean. After a bath/shower, lightly massage your feet with moisturiser to prevent dry/cracking skin. Treat yourself to a pedicure every now and then if you find it difficult to bend and cut your own to toenails – this includes men too! Different eucalyptus oils can help soothe foot discomfort and promote youthful skin structure as well.

5. Get comfortable shoes

Make sure the shoe has a firm non-slip sole and a soft upper. If the sole isn’t firm enough, use a foam insert or, if the shoes is large enough, a sheep skin insert works wonders as they are incredibly soft and comfortable.

6. Say goodbye to corns

Although tempting, do NOT cut corns yourself – this is a job for a professional. Find yourself a good podiatrist or chiropodist or try aspirin. It’s great for thinning blood and restricting blood vessels, which is why it works well on corns. Crush five or six aspirin tablets and mix with equal parts apple cider vinegar and water to make a paste. Rub it onto a corn or callus for a few minutes, the scrub off with pumice stone.

7. Cut your toenails properly

It can be our impulse to want to cut our toenails right off and very short, but care needs to be taken to make sure you don’t encourage ingrown toenails. Cut your nails straight across with no curves, and file downwards.

8. Stay dry

Fungal infections breed in damp conditions such as a sweaty sock or tight shoe. Dry your feet thoroughly and ensure you have nice loose shoes and clean socks.

9. Keep elevated

If you notice your feet are looking a bit worse for wear, pop them up on a stool. Research has shown that by keeping your feet elevated, you can maintain better foot circulation. Avoid crossing your legs.

10. Get rid of yellow nails