Summer Pedicure Expose Those Toes

Summer has arrived and with it comes bare feet and exposed toes. Their is nothing more unattractive than baring those unsightly feet, and the most gorgeous sandals aren't going to make a bit of difference, if we don't tend to our feet first! The feet are one of the most abused parts of our body. They work very hard and carry the blunt of the weight (sorry no pun intended!). They get get smothered with socks and crammed into shoes, with little exposure to air. Just follow the 8 steps outlined below for a relaxing home pedicure and you will be on your way to an overdue pampering that both you and your feet will appreciate.

Now before you start be sure you have completely removed any existing nail polish, with your choice of acetone nail polish remover.

Step 1. First you are going to start out with a good foot soak. Fill a container that will fit your feet comfortably (if you own a personal foot spa, all the better) or the bath tub with enough warm water to cover your feet. Add some Epsom salts which are easily found at any drug or department store. Grab your favorite summer beverage, sit down and relax as you soak your feet for approx.15 minutes.

Step 2. Next you will need a pumice stone and some ex foliating scrub, if you don't have these items on hand, again they can be purchased at any drug or department store. Rub the ex foliating scrub all over the feet (start with one foot, when finished repeat the process on the other foot), then use the pumice to gently scrub all over the soles of your feet. Making sure to give extra special attention to the heel area, which is notorious for skin build up. This will remove the dead skin particles.

Step 3. Thoroughly dry both feet. I like to use a thick cotton towel fresh from the dryer for a warm and cozy feel.

Step 4. Neatly trim your toenails and be sure to push back the cuticles.

Step 5. Rinse the feet once again in warm water. Then dry them one more time.

Step 6. Next you want to massage each foot with plenty of lotion. You can use a foot lotion specifically for feet or your favorite body lotion will work just fine. If you don't have any lotion on hand, you can also use petroleum jelly. For an exhilarating experience try using a peppermint foot lotion. It gives the feet a tingly and invigorating feeling.

Step 7. Now that you have rubbed your feet with plenty of lotion, wrap each one in a plastic bag (plastic grocery bags work great!) Now leave them covered and sit back and relax for at least 15 minutes, (this a perfect time to read a few articles in your favorite magazine!). This will help the lotion absorb into the skin, leaving you with soft silky feet. After this your feet will feel like they just had a pedicure at a swanky salon!

Step 8. Last but definitely not least, apply 2 coats of nail polish. For a great summer look, consider choosing soft pastels or bright tropical colors (these look awesome with a tan!) than finish them off with a top coat of clear nail polish for added shine as well as longer wear. Be sure to allow plenty of time for them to throughly dry, before putting on any shoes.

Another idea for your consideration. If you like the look of french nails, buy a bottle of solid white nail polish or actual french tip polish and apply it just to the ends of the nails. After that has completely dried, finish with a top coat that has a slight blush to it. You now have the look of gorgeous french nails at a fraction of the cost!

Don't forget to print this page as your step by step guide.

Congratulations you gave yourself a pedicure in the comfort of your own home! Now look down, are those feet not gorgeous! Can't you just picture those beauties in a strappy pair of sandals. Just imagine how stunning you are going to look when you don that sexy little summer dress and flash those lovely feet! You are now ready for Summer.