With spring well on its way and summer fast-approaching, now is the perfect time to pull out your pretty sandals and reveal those beautiful feet. But we know that the dry winter months can often leave our feet looking a little dull, cracked or dry.
ALSO SEE: Our round up of the best spring beauty buys
The good news is, with a few simple beauty tricks and some fabulous products, it’s easy to give yourself a pampering at-home pedicure without stepping foot in a salon. It’s all about investing in those hard-working products that’ll do the job for you and leave your feet looking neat and polished.
Our Beauty Editor has selected some of the best products, which promise to prep, prime and polish your feet to perfection!
The all-in one nail polish remover
When you remove old nail polish, opt for an acetone-free remover, as it isn’t as drying on nails and won’t leave them with a yellow stain. It’s also wise to choose a nail polish remover that works fast. Try essence Clean & Go Express Nail Polish Remover, R54,95 for 30ml, available at Clicks.
The skincare scrub
Freeman Bare Foot Exfoliating Lemon & Sage Foot Scrub, R82,95 for 150ml, from Dis-Chem, leaves skin baby soft and buffed to perfection. The formulation is ideal for quickly softening hard, cracked heels and calluses. For super-dry skin, apply a good-quality moisturiser to your feet after using this scrub, then pop on socks before bed.
ALSO SEE: 5 tips for great nails
The callus remover
Just about the most addictive beauty tool ever, Scholl Electronic Foot File Value Pack, R399, from Clicks, works seamlessly to remove hard, callused skin on the balls of the feet and toes. It also works wonders to smooth out dry, cracked heels and nails thanks to the additional nail care oil.
A nail file to add shape
essence Studio Nails Sweet Mini File, R18,95 from Dis-Chem, gives you greater control of the length and shape of your toenails, thanks to it’s unique size. Plus, it gives a perfect, professional finish.
A bit of sparkle
Bright red always looks great on toenails. “Add a line of gold or silver along the tips to add a bit of glamour to a red nail,” says nail pro, Jenni Draper. “Or even consider a subtle nail jewel at the base of one or all of your nails.We love the stylish patterns in essence Nail Art Duo Stylist, R44,95, available at Clicks.
A top coat treat
Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Color in the shade ‘Invisible’, R69,95, from Clicks, is simply amazing. It dries quickly and keeps polish perfect amd chip-free for days. Reapply every other day to keep toenails looking flawless in those peep toes.
ALSO SEE: More savvy hand and nail care tips
The nourishing mask
Who said masks are just for the face? Skin Logic Foot Rescue Mask, R49,99, from Clicks, contains a soothing blend of plant extracts including avocado, tea tree and eucalyptus to revive tired feet and replenish lost moisture. Put your feet up and relax for 20 minutes while the mask performs its magic.
The best foot conditioner
Bee Essential Remedies Herbal Heel Balm, R159 for 100g, available online and in store from Rain, is great for keeping cuticles and heels soft and moisturised. A tiny amount of this balm massaged in daily will help to maintain the overall health of your feet, thanks to a host of antioxidants, olive oil and bees wax – which has incredible healing properties.
