Feet don’t fail me now
SAM WYLIE-HARRIS GIVES TIPS ON GETTING READY FOR SANDAL SEASON
WITH chunky open-toe sandals, sleek mules and strappy gladiators back in fashion, this season is all about showing off your feet.
But unless you’re dedicated to getting a professional pedicure every few weeks, chances are you need to do a bit of prep before putting your best foot forward.
Here’s how to get your tootsies ready for summer...
Exfoliate and moisturise
Bryony Cocksedge, brand expert at online beauty store Lisa & Lou (lisalou.co.uk), says the first step is to deal with any build-up from the winter months.
“Exfoliating takes away dead skin on the surface. Layers of dead skin cells will block other products from entering the surface of skin, and therefore it’s beneficial to exfoliate regularly, especially in the run-up to hotter weather,” she says.
She recommends using a scrub once or twice a week to remove dead skin, improve circulation, and increase cell renewal.
Follow with a moisturiser, with Bryony adding: “Make sure you moisturise daily, from top to toe.”
Don’t show callus disregard Considering what we put our poor feet through, it’s no surprise calluses – hard, thick areas of skin – are a common problem.
Bryony recommends using a softening product followed by a foot file to target calluses.
Cut or file toenails
When it comes to cutting and filing, try to trim your toenails straight across – this will help avoid ingrown toenails.
Margaret Dabbs, founder of Margaret Dabbs London (margaretdabbs.co.uk), says: “A great trick is to use a crystal nail file to file the toenails straight across – this immediately gives the look of feet that have been groomed at a salon.”
Paint with proper technique
To prepare your toenails, gently push your cuticles back, then use nail varnish remover to clean the nail bed. “Always use a base coat to help prevent staining – and also prolong wear,” advises Bryony.
“Keep your brush as flat as you can when painting the nail, to prevent brush marks and give a more even coverage. Don’t overload your brush – too much will run into the cuticle and sidewalls.
“The fewer strokes the better, otherwise it will start to go gloopy. Finish with cuticle oil when the nails are dry to the
touch.”
Choose polish wisely
“For toes, it’s important to choose a formula that’s long-wearing and chip resistant, to keep your pedicure looking fresh,” says Emolyne Ramlov, founder of Emolyne Cosmetics (emolyne.com).
The more highly pigmented a polish is, the fewer coats you’ll need to apply – and quick-drying formulations are best for busy lives.
“At Emolyne, we love classic red shades on our toes for an instantly put-together feel,” notes Emolyne. “With summer on the horizon, we’re opting for deep pink tones and bright, fiery reds.”
BELOW, L-R: Cienna Rose Nail Lacquer in Sunkissed, £9; Cowshed Nourish Cuticle Oil, £10; Margaret Dabbs The Perfect Home Pedicure Set, £67; Luxury Dadi Lotion, £20 at Lisa & Lou; Footlogix Callus Softener & File Retail Kit, £40 ; Emolyne Nail Polish in Zanzibar, £13;
Famous Releaf Dadi Scrub Gold, £16