Ok, let's be honest: feet are definitely not the most glamorous topic for discussion; but the truth is that our feet are extremely important and often overlooked and underappreciated. Did you know that on an average day of walking, the total forces on your feet can total hundreds of tons? That's equivalent to a fully loaded cement truck! Or that the average person will walk 115,000 miles in a lifetime? That equals more than four times around the earth! Good foot hygiene doesn't mean that you have to commit to pricey monthly pedicures or spend hundreds of dollars on products; there are many simple and inexpensive ways to maintain healthy, pain-free and hydrated feet. Here are a few handy tips to show your hardworking tootsies some love this winter.
On average a person takes about 8 to 10 thousand steps a day, so it's important to make sure you're stepping out in comfortable, proper fitting shoes. Insoles are a great way to add extra support, cushion and comfort. For those of you who spend long hours on your feet, nothing is more wonderful for those tired aching dogs than a soak in warm water and epsom salts. Not only will this help to relieve muscle pain and stiffness, it will also neutralize foot odors. A fantastic treat for your feet is our Menthol Madness Foot Soakwhich combines epsom salts and mentholated crystals, known to relieve tension headaches and ease stress. After a well deserved soak, it's time to exfoliate! To do this you can simply use a pumice stone, foot file or any foot scrub of your choice on damp feet to remove any layers of accumulated skin and smooth corns, calluses and hardened areas. We just love our Garden Hands Classic Scrub which can be used on both hands and feet!
Daily moisturizing plays a vital role in foot care. Applying rich creams that contain ingredients such as shea butter, glycerin or petrolatum will moisturize and soften your skin while antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C and E will help repair dry, painful, cracked skin. Be careful to avoid applying lotion between the toes. Excess moisture in those areas (from lotion, sweat, etc) can attract bacteria and increase the risk of developing fungal infections such as Athlete's Foot. To deliver extra hydration overnight, try applying a thick cream or salve after soaking and then slip on a pair of light socks to sleep in. The next morning, your feet will be soft, supple and smooth. Try our Mentholated Foot Salve: this delicious smelling and extremely cooling salve absorbs quickly to leave your feet feeling refreshed and hydrated.
Please don't forget those toenails! Keep them well trimmed straight across and filed down to avoid hangnails and ingrown toenails. Keep cuticles pushed back to avoid infection and moisturize your toenails with cuticle cream, petroleum jelly or Vitamin E oil. Remember, if you ever have any pains, concerns or questions about the health of your feet, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional.
Get a head start on your foot care regime this winter so that you'll be showing off your healthy happy feet this summer!
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