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Our feet go through a lot. From walking and standing all day to being crammed into shoes, it’s no wonder our feet can get pretty dry, cracked, and calloused. Beautiful feet are not only aesthetically pleasing but they are often seen as a sign of good hygiene. While this can be difficult, regularly using a foot scrubber for dead skin can make a world of difference.
Dry skin can lead to cracked heels and calluses, but regular exfoliation can help prevent these problems. A pumice stone or foot scrubber can be used to slough off dead skin cells, revealing the soft, supple skin underneath. Foot scrubbers are designed to exfoliate and massage your feet, improving blood circulation and leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth.
Related: How to Create a Daily Foot Care Routine
In nail salons, estheticians often use foot scrubbers to prepare your feet for a pedicure. When dead skin cells accumulate on the feet, they can cause the skin to become thick and hard, making it more difficult for moisturizers to penetrate. This can also make the feet more susceptible to fungal infections.1
The Benefits Of Using a Foot Scrubber For Dead Skin
1. Softer feet
Dry feet are not only unsightly but can be painful as well. Calluses and cracked heels can make it difficult to walk and even stand. The rough areas can also catch on socks and shoes, causing further irritation. Using a foot scrubber for dead skin on the bottom of your feet can help to prevent these problems by keeping the skin soft and supple.2
2. Fewer infections
When dead skin cells accumulate on the surface of the skin, they can create an environment that is conducive to fungal growth. By removing these cells, you can help to prevent fungal infections of the nails and skin.
3. Better circulation
The circular motions of using a foot scrubber for dead skin can help to improve blood circulation in the feet. This increased circulation can promote healing and help to reduce pain and inflammation.3
4. Improves skin texture
A lack of moisture can cause the skin on your feet to become dry, rough, and cracked. Exfoliating with a foot scrubber can help to remove dead skin cells and help your skin to better absorb moisturizers. This can improve the overall texture of your skin.
5. Reduces stress
There is nothing like a relaxing foot massage to help reduce stress and tension. The massaging action of using a foot scrubber for dead skin can help to promote relaxation and improve your mood.
The Best Foot Scrubbers For Dead Skin
There are many types of foot scrubbers to consider for your feet and skin type. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each type before making a decision.
1. Metal Foot File – $7
Foot files are similar to pumice stones they’re both manual exfoliators but these are usually made of stainless steel or plastic. They usually have a rough surface on one side and a softer side for buffing. Metal foot files can be used on wet or dry skin but work best on wet skin. An ergonomic design can make it easier to use.
2. Pumice stone (Pack of 4) – $9
A pumice stone is a natural volcanic rock that can be used to exfoliate the skin. It’s important to soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes before using a pumice stone to soften the skin. Pumice stones are available in different sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose one that is comfortable to hold.
3. Electric foot scrubber – $23
Electric foot scrubbers are battery-operated devices that spin a brush or roller around your feet. They usually have different speed settings and may include a pumice stone attachment. Some models come with a built-in heater to keep your feet warm during the exfoliation process.
Shower foot scrubbers are usually made of silicone and have bristles on one side for exfoliating. They fit over your foot like a sock and can be used in the shower. Some models have suction cups on the bottom to keep them in place. They help by saving you from bending over to reach your feet.
5. Foot peel (Pack of 3) – $13
Foot peels are treatments that use chemical exfoliators like acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells. They typically come in a foot soak or a cream that is applied to the feet and left on for a certain amount of time. Foot peels can be harsh so it’s important to follow the directions carefully. It’s also important to moisturize your feet after using a foot peel.
6. Paraffin wax treatment (Bonus)
This isn’t a foot scrubber but does work well to remove dry patches and creates smooth feet. The paraffin wax is applied to the feet and then covered with a plastic bag or wrap. A heating pad is placed over the wax to help it melt and penetrates the skin. After 10-15 minutes, the wax is removed, and your feet are covered in a moisturizer.
Whatever foot scrubber you choose here are some home treatments to get your feet in tip-top shape:
Scrubs are an important part of any foot care routine. They help to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells. Scrubs can also help to improve circulation and promote healing. There are many different types of scrubs available on the market, but not all of them are created equal.
The best foot scrubs contain natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin. Some of the most effective ingredients include Epsom salt, apple cider vinegar, oatmeal, and lemon juice. These ingredients are all safe to use on the feet and they can provide excellent results.
When choosing a foot scrub, be sure to avoid scrubs that contain harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients. These types of scrubs can damage the skin and cause irritation. Always test a small area of the skin before using a new foot scrub to make sure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.
Salt Soak and Foot Scrub
Epsom salts are a great way to soothe tired feet and can also be used as a scrub. Blood flow is increased, and muscles are relaxed when added to a warm bath. The mineral compound can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
To use add 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to a warm foot bath and soak for 10-15 minutes. For a scrub, mix 1 cup of Epsom salt with ½ a cup of olive oil or sweet almond oil. Rub the mixture into your feet in circular motions and rinse with warm water.
Follow up with an oil like coconut oil or olive oil to keep your feet moisturized.
Vinegar Soak and Foot Scrub
Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can also be used to soften the skin. The acidity of the vinegar helps to break down dead skin cells. The chance of a bacterial infection is decreased thanks to the vinegar’s antimicrobial properties.
Related: 15 Ayurvedic Treatments for Toenail Fungus
To use mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar with 2 cups of warm water in a foot basin or bathtub. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes and then scrub your feet with a pumice stone or foot file. Rinse your feet with warm water and dry them off.
You can also make a scrub by mixing 1 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of brown sugar. Rub the mixture into your feet in circular motions and rinse with warm water. Following up with a foot cream will help to keep your feet moisturized.
Oatmeal Soak and Foot Scrub
Oats are a natural source of Avena sativa, an ingredient often found in cosmetics and skin care products. This compound can help to soothe dry and itchy skin. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of oats can also help to protect the skin.
To use mix 1 cup of oatmeal with 2 cups of warm water in a foot basin or bathtub. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes and then scrub your feet with a pumice stone or foot file. Rinse your feet with warm water and dry them off.
You can also add essential oils like lavender oil or eucalyptus oil to the oatmeal for a relaxing foot soak or oatmeal scrub.
Related: Can Essential Oils Dissolve Bunions?
Lemon Soak and Foot Scrub
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help to protect the skin. The citric acid in lemon juice can also help to exfoliate the skin.
To use mix the juice of 1 lemon with 2 cups of warm water in a foot basin or bathtub. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes and then scrub your feet with a pumice stone or foot file. Rinse your feet with warm water and dry them off.
These are all effective ways to achieve baby-soft feet and the good news is that they can work for all skin types. other tools to consider on your quest for soft feet include:
- Foot Brush – you can use this in the shower to slough off dead skin cells.
- Foot callus remover gel – some of the best callus removers will contain a safe and effective exfoliating ingredient like salicylic acid or lactic acid.
- Electronic foot file – this is useful for getting rid of thicker calluses.
In the end, it’s important to be careful when treating tough calluses. For best results always be sure to soak feet prior to using any foot scrub to ensure that the scrub can penetrate the tough skin. Never use a foot scrub on broken skin as this could cause an infection. Above all, make sure you’re using clean tools and taking proper safety precautions.
If you are unsure about any of the methods mentioned here, always consult with a doctor or dermatologist to get professional advice.