5 Summer Foot Care Tips

In the summer your feet are affected by quite different factors than during the rest of the year. Your skin is exposed to bigger amounts of sun rays, wind, water, and sand. In addition, with increased sweating, your skin can also get dehydrated more easily. So what do your feet need most during the summer? And what are the best ways to properly take care of them? Here are a few tips to keep your skin healthy and smooth.

Choose the correct shoes

Of course, the first thing that comes to mind when you think “summer shoes” are sandals. However, it’s not that simple. Open-toed shoes, or at least those made with high-quality materials, are the best options for the summer. Still, there are a few things you’ll want to consider when picking out the best summer shoes out there.

To prevent your feet from literally falling out of your sandals you’ll want to choose a pair with a stable heel and a strap around the ankle. Next, check the material from which the shoes are made of. Poor quality materials can more easily lead to painful blisters. When the temperature rises, each defect of the material will rub against your skin in such a way that can even cause wounds.  

Supplement your body with magnesium

Cramps in your legs and feet can come from the deficiency of certain chemical elements in the body, especially magnesium. If you see such symptoms, you’ll want to supply your body with these elements. Magnesium, curiously enough, absorbs best when in the form of salt or bath flakes. So after a long day, treat yourself to a relaxing bath and add some epsom salt. This can provide your feet, body, and mind with some much needed relief.

Magnesium is responsible for a few hundred chemical reactions in your body. Remember to maintain optimal levels of this element in your body and enjoy an active summer cramp-free.

Don’t forget about exfoliation!

One of the ways you can keep your feet smooth and silky is by performing a foot scrub every once in a while. You can either buy such a scrub in a store, or make one from scratch by yourself. All you’ll need to do is combine coconut oil with granulated sugar or salt. For a nice smell you can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. 

Giving your feet regular scrubs can have more benefits than just smooth skin. Apart from removing dead skin cells, you will improve blood circulation in your feet which can help alleviate pain. Finally, scrubs can smooth away calluses on your feet, relieving you additional discomfort. 

Proper nail trimming

During the summer we tend to wear shoes that uncover our feet and nails. This has its upsides, as it allows them to breathe, but it also exposes the skin to potentially harmful external factors. On the other hand, with high temperatures and closed-toe shoes, we risk getting blisters and even open wounds. High temperatures combined with friction and pressure placed on the nails can lead to bleeding and bruising under the nails and to cracks of the nail plate. How can you prevent this?

Shortening your toenails frequently can help you maintain proper hygiene and prevent various mechanical injuries. You should shorten your nails with a fine-grained file around once per week, of course depending on how fast your plate regrows. Remember to leave a tiny bit of nail so as not to harm your skin. Specialists also recommend keeping your toenails in a round shape, this can prevent injuring the skin of the neighboring fingers.

Visit a specialist

If you’re at a point where you feel you’re doing everything right, but still have issues with your feet or nails, the best thing you can do is visit a specialist. Depending on the severity of your problems you can opt for an appointment at a podiatrist, podologist, or at a beauty salon. A personalized approach and properly chosen products can truly work wonders. 

Remember, you can always book an appointment at a specialist by using the Booksy website or Booksy app. Professional help is only a few clicks, or taps, away!