The feet are one of the most neglected parts of our bodies. People tend to ignore their feet, even though they are the foundation of our bodies. Foot exfoliation is a great way to maintain healthy feet and prevent premature ageing.  

The feet are the most sensitive parts of your body. This is because they have to deal with the same irritating things that your skin does, but they also have to deal with them daily. One of the main irritants is dead skin, which builds up over time and causes dryness, cracked heels and redness. So, if you want to keep your feet healthy and smooth, a pedicure with foot scrub is the only way out.  

What is Foot Exfoliation? 

The word “exfoliate” means removing the outer layer of skin from an area. For example, when you exfoliate your feet, you remove the dead skin cells accumulated over time on your feet. This process will help reduce the appearance of calluses and make your skin look more youthful. Exfoliation is the process of removing the outermost layer of your skin, known as the stratum corneum. This layer comprises dead cells and oil that can clog pores and cause breakouts. Exfoliation helps keep pores clear and clean and reduces the risk of blackheads and whiteheads. In addition, exfoliating is an excellent way to prevent cracked heels.  

Why is Foot Exfoliation Necessary? 

Foot exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin from the foot. This can be done through foot scrubs, creams, and masks. The purpose of doing this is to improve the appearance of your feet. In addition, you will also be able to remove dead skin from your body and make it healthy and smooth. Many benefits having a healthy foot will provide you. You will have a better look at it and feel better about yourself because of all the benefits that come with it. 

If you want to get rid of bumpy, dry patches on your feet or ankles, you’ll need to use foot scrub creams regularly. Dry skin often leads to cracked heels, which can be painful to walk on and make it harder for you to get back into your favourite shoes when it’s time for work or play. 

Calluses are caused by friction with shoes or surfaces on your feet, like carpets or floors. They also appear when dry skin and your feet sweat profusely during exercise or hot weather conditions. Calluses can make walking or standing uncomfortable and challenging, leading to other health problems such as heel pain and plantar warts (a rash that appears on the sole of the foot). So, exfoliate your feet regularly if you want to get rid of stubborn cellulite. 

Foot exfoliation also helps even the skin tone. You can use some homemade or any derma recommended feet whitening scrub to get rid of wrinkled dark feet. 

Can you exfoliate your feet at home? 

One of the primary irritants is dead skin, which builds up over time and causes dryness, cracked heels and redness. If you want to keep your feet healthy and smooth, there are a few things that you can do at home to help prevent this. 

1) Pumice stone: 

One of the most effective processes of removing dead cells at home is using a pumice stone. It's a natural lava stone that is light, abrasive, and effectively removes the dead skin layer. In addition, a pumice stone can reduce calluses buildup and heel pain. You can use the stone twice or thrice a week, but it is essential to know how to use it: 

• Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the cracked parts. 
• Dip the pumice stone in warm water. 
• Gently massage the stone in a circular motion or sideways to remove dead cells. Don't be harsh on the calluses; it can cause bleeding.  
• Focus on just removing the top layer, not the entire area. It will stimulate cell regeneration.  
• Apply lotion or foot cream afterwards.  

Tip: Don't use a pumice stone on sore and injured areas. 

2) Pedi Pampering at Home: 

Give your feet a little love and attention with a pedicure session at your home.  

• Remove old nail polish. 
• Soak your feet in warm soapy water. You can add some Epsom salts and essential oils to enhance the experience.  
• Trim and file your nails 

• Massage your feet for a while. 
• Scrap out the dirt from your nails.  
• Apply some chemical-free foot scrub and massage your feet. You can use Dr Foot's foot scrub for cracked heels. It contains tea tree and sweet almond oil nourishes your heels and keeps your feet fresh and hydrated.  
• Rub the cracked heels with a pumice stone.  
• Wash your feet well and apply some foot cream. 

3) Paraffin wax: 

Most nail salon recommends paraffin wax treatment for pedicure sessions. This soft wax shall be melted at a medium temperature (max 51°C) so that it doesn't burn or irritate your skin. Melt wax in a saucepan and transfer to a bowl to dip your feet. 

4) Oatmeal scrub: 

Oats is a natural exfoliator. Burning belly fat can also remove the dead skin cells from your feet.  

• Mix equal parts of oatmeal with milk and a few drops of rose water.  
• Apply the scrub on your feet and set it for 20-30 minutes. 
• Rinse with cold water and apply some lotion. 

5) Vinegar soak: 

Vinegar can work wonders for any home remedy, from cleaning cabinets to cleansing calluses. Vinegar soak softens your feet and makes it easier to remove calluses. Mix one part of white or apple cider vinegar with warm water and soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.