Pedicures are polarizing: You either love them or you hate them. For those of us who get itchy just thinking about someone taking a pumice stone and a scrub brush to our heels, there’s no better time than right now to master the at-home pedicure.
Ahead, we asked nail pro Sarah Gibson Tuttle, founder of L.A.’s boutique salon Olive & June, to break down her at-home plan for when we’re steering clear of the salon. Her six steps to smooth, sandal-prepped feet are so cheap and easy, they’ll make even the biggest pedi devotee feel more comfortable quitting their salon habit cold-turkey for the time being.
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Start With A Foot Soak
“We use Pursoma bath salts for our in-salon pedicures,” Tuttle says. “You can always buy cheap epsom salt to soak your feet at home, but the Pursoma mineral formula hydrates and soothes the feet, and will make your bathroom actually smell like a spa.”
Pursoma Detoxifying + Revitalizing Lemon Verbena Bath Soak, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Follow With A Foot Peel
When you’re not sure how best to approach your rock-hard callouses, turn to a foot mask once they’ve been softened up by a soak. These foot-peeling “shoes” are a best-seller and use liquid enzymes to magically disintegrate the stubborn keratin buildup on your feet. Is it gross? For sure, but trust: Your feet will be baby-soft afterwards.
Tony Moly Changing You Magic Foot Peeling Shoes, $, available at YesStyle
Keep A Dry Brush In The Shower
“The easiest trick is to keep a loofah or a scrub brush for your feet in your shower,” says Tuttle. “That way, you’ll get in the habit of making a quick foot treatment — just sloughing away any dead skin — a part of your everyday routine.”
EcoTools EcoTools Bamboo Foot Brush & File, $, available at Amazon
Try Spa Socks
Tuttle recommends moisturising socks after applying lotion. “If you shower at night before bed, just throw them on afterwards while you’re watching TV or something and they’ll soften any cracks on your heels.”
Soap & Glory The Heel Deal Snooze Socks, $, available at Boots
Use Cuticle Serum On Your Toenails
Cuticle serum is not only going to extend the life of your at-home manicure, but your pedicure, too. Tuttle tells us that most people overlook the cuticle care on their feet, but applying a serum to your toenails before you go in with polish will make a world of difference and keep the colour from chipping or peeling.
Margaret Dabbs Nourishing Nail & Cuticle Serum Pen, $, available at Cult Beauty
Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise
Just like your elbows, knees, and hands, your feet need a little extra TLC — especially in the summer when you’re wearing sandals and they’re fully exposed. Foot creams are great if you happen to have one, but Tuttle says your standard body lotion will work in a pinch.
Flexitol Intense Overnight Foot Cream, $, available at Boots
Go With A Bright Polish
In this stressful time, a bright colour can act as a mood booster. Tuttle recommends a spring-y pastel. “Toes are the best place to experiment with colour,” she says. “While you’re spending time at home, what’s happier than a fresh peony-pink pedicure?”
OPI Nail Polish in Getting Nadi On My Honeymoon, $, available at Nail Polish Direct
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