After a long winter season, our feet have been hidden away and neglected. Due to indoor heating, our skin has dried out and started to crack. This can be especially painful on our feet. Now that summer is just around the corner, it is time to get our feet into prime shape, and ready for sandals. With a little bit of love and basic care, you can have your feet ready in no time. Here are four ways to keep your feet hydrated and sandal-ready.

Moisturize

Using lotion, foot masks, a moisturizer can help hydrate and revitalize your feet. It is important to use a moisturizing agent at least twice a day. A good way to keep track of this is to lotion up once in the morning, and once after a bath or shower. When choosing a moisturizer be sure to avoid those with alcohol as they have adverse hydrating effects. Also, try to avoid lotions with mineral oils infused in them, they tend to prevent lotion from being absorbed into the skin.

Drink Water

Hydrating your body is important from your head all the way down to your feet. Without proper hydration, your body begins to dry out and your skin starts to crack. Your feet, being father away from other vital organs, tend to be one of the first body parts to suffer from dehydration. Be sure to drink at least 64 ounces of water a day to keep your feet happy and soft.

Cast off Calluses

Calluses appear on our feet to protect the areas that get the most traction. Although calluses can be helpful, they can spread the dry, cracked state of your feet. Due to the lack of elasticity, the calluses on the feet spread causes longer, deeper, ridges. Use a pumice stone to gently remove your calluses. After removing the calluses, moisturize your feet. This will help prevent the spread of dry skin.

Wear Socks

After moisturizing, consider throwing on a pair of socks. Socks keep your feet protected from harsh elements and environments. Wearing socks also helps prevent moisture from escaping. This tactic will hydrate your feet and make them soft as silk.

Are your feet still scaling? Tried moisturizing for weeks to no avail? It’s time to call, Joseph Stuto, DPM, your local podiatrist. Dr. Joseph Stuto is multi-board certified and has two convenient locations in Brooklyn, New York. Do not wait until it’s too late! Book an appointment now. You can contact us via phone at 718-624-7537. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online here. We look forward to meeting you and aiding you in getting your feet sandal-ready!