Hard skin, uncut nails, ingrown nails and athletes foot need care and attention. Not looking after our tootsies can lead to problems in other parts of our bodies. Back pains, headaches or sore knees can all result from bad feet, so start looking after them.
Interesting nail facts
*Fingernails grow faster than toenails; however toenails are twice as thick as fingernails.
*The first modern manicure was introduced to women by French podiatrist Dr Sitts in 1892.
*The fastest growing nail is on the middle finger and the slowest is on the thumb.
*The Chinese aristocracy were among the first to colour their nails with a lacquer made of beeswax and eggwhites dyed with plants in 3000BC.
*Seasons and weather affect nail growth. Nails grow faster in warm climates and during the day than in cold climates and at night.
*Men’s nails grow faster than women’s.
*Nails grow approximately 1cm every 100 days. If you were to loose a nail it would take between four and six months to completely re-grow.
The beginners guide to healthy feet.
Daily Routine
*Inspect your feet. Redness is not a good sign. Ill-fitting shoes rubbing blisters and sores can leave you wincing in pain and walking uncomfortably. If blisters have already formed, wash your feet and change your shoes every evening.
*Alternating shoes can leave time for them to dry out sufficiently and reduce the likelihood of athlete’s foot. Sweating is the main cause of the fungus and can easily be avoided. Try wearing an insole to absorb excess moisture.
*Change your socks and tights every day. Keeping your feet clean will stop most infections, but ensure you dry them carefully, concentrating on between the toes. Soft skin can rip easier so be careful not to tear between the toes. Ouch!
Weekly Treat
*Soak your feet in a tub of warm water for at least 20 minutes. Try adding aromatherapy oils for an extra splash of luxury.
*After your soak remove any hard skin and apply exfoliating cream. Finally rinse feet with fresh water and dry carefully and thoroughly.
*Take time to give your nails a trim, but make sure you clip straight across. Cutting nails too short or shaping them can cause ingrown nails and infections.
*Apply moisturiser to feet before painting nails. Of course, getting someone else to do this for you could complete your weekly treat. But alternatively, place your foot over the other leg to allow easier access and massage gently.
*Obviously maintenance is only part of the solution. Looking after your feet when you’re out and about is vital. No girl will ever give up wearing their best pair of heels to save their knees in later years but there are steps you can take. Scholl’s Party Feet range offers the balls of your feet that extra bit of cushioning so you can party on the dance floor that little bit longer.
*With the summer months approaching it is more imporant than ever to look after your feet. Peel off your winter socks and prepare to pamper...
Don't miss out! subscribe to one of our magazines
Read one of our electronic editions