At home self-care is important for everyone. Not only does it promote good health, it also allows us to stay in tune with our bodies. There are all types of different methods of self-care that can be done at home. Some of these methods are washing, facials, meditation, and sleeping.  All of these simple tasks are good for the mind and the body in different ways. Sometimes, as we care for ourselves, we forget some of the other parts of our body that we use constantly. A good example of an often-forgotten part of the body is our feet. Our feet are our main source of mobility and deserve a little pampering.

One great way to pamper and care for our feet to keep them happy and healthy is by performing an at-home pedicure.

Step 1: Soak your feet. Fill up the tub or a bucket with warm water and add in some soap, Epsom salt, or your favorite bath oils. Pop your feet into the water and allow them to soak for up to 15 minutes. This softens the skin and makes it easier for you to scrub off dead skin, calluses and push back cuticles on the toenails later.

Step 2: Grab a file and work on those calluses. Be careful as you file them away. Too much filing can cause pain and tenderness in the foot. It can also take off layers of healthy skin. Stick to it just until the callus area feels soft and smooth again.

Step 3: Scrub your feet. You can use a loofa and your favorite bath soap to get rid of the dead skin that is plaguing your feet.

Step 4: Nail care full steam ahead. Make sure your nails are trimmed and tidy. Be sure to cut them straight across to avoid getting ingrown toenails later. Also, oil and push back your cuticles gently so that the nail can breathe and grow healthily.

Step 5: Grab some polish and paint your nails if you desire. Try to stay away from nail polishes that have orange as a base in the color, as these can cause nails to yellow over time.

While pampering your feet, you might notice an ulcer or other deformities. If you do, be sure to consult a podiatrist right away. Although a pedicure is good for your feet, it does not prevent underlying disease and conditions. Call Joseph Stuto, DPM of Brooklyn, New York. There Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Joseph C. Stuto can determine which type of foot or ankle condition your at-home pedicure brought to light. Call 718-624-7537and make an appointment today.