Spring Pedicure

Maybe you've had your feet covered up all winter in layers of socks and boots. When the warmer weather comes, and you can't wait to slip your feet into those sexy sandals, how can you be sure that your feet are ready to be on display? There's no need to pay salon prices, you can achieve the perfect pedicure right at home. Here's an easy guide to getting feet that both look and feel fabulous.

For tired and work-weary feet, there's nothing like a good soak. Fill a small, plastic tub with warm, soapy water. If you have a foot bath you can use that, if not, any shallow plastic tub will do. If you have very dry feet, you can add a little bath oil to the water. Soaking will cleanse and soften. Soaking will also make nails easier to clip and shape.

After a good soak (at least ten minutes) towel off your feet. The toenails will be soft and easy to clip or file. Always cut your toenails evenly and in a straight line. Rounded edges or nails cut too short can lead to ingrown toenails. You can follow up with a nail file or emery board to smooth edges.

Next, use a pumice stone to smooth out rough areas from heels and the ball of the foot. If you have tough calluses that require more intensive treatment there are several options available. You can buy commercial preparations that will remove the callus, but these contain chemicals that could be dangerous if instructions are not strictly followed. To soften calluses before your manicure and make them easier to file down, apply and emollient cream or plain Vaseline to feet and cover with white, cotton socks. Keep these on overnight and you will be amazed at the difference in the morning.

Follow your soak with a foot massage using a moisturizing lotion. For a tingly, fresh feel, try a lotion with peppermint. You can rub the lotion into your cuticles and push them back gently if you like.

You're now ready to polish. If you prefer a natural look, use clear polish or just buff nails to a shine. If you prefer to use a colored polish, be sure to choose a color that will get attention, but nothing garish. Unnatural colors such as green or blue will not look fashionable on your toenails. Coral, pink, rose, peach, bright red or even a french manicure will make your feet look feminine and begging to be shown off. Add a toe ring as an added attention-grabber.

Now you're ready to slide those sexy feet into a pair of great sandals and take them out for a walk!