Best feet forward into summertime
The weather is warming up, so it’s time to book a pedicure, and plan your new anti-sweat regime
SOME BEAUTY topics are more glamorous than others. Podiatry probably isn’t one of them, but we spend half our lives on our feet, so it’s good to occasionally get them checked out — especially in time for sandal season. Many of us tend to suffer it out in high heels, but if you’ve noticed any random aches or swelling around the old metatarsals, there could be a more serious issue at play.
At a recent appointment, my podiatrist told me that the sharp stabbing pains I’ve been experiencing in the ball of my foot were due to the fact I turn my feet inwards when I walk (which sounds about as sexy as John Cleese goosestepping), noting how my flimsy flip flops were probably doing my feet as much harm as high heels. She recommended sandals with good arch support, so I promptly hot-footed it down to Birkenstock, whose footbed flats are the stuff of legend. My new sandals briefly rubbed and blistered for the first few wears, but shortly after were the most comfortable soles on the planet — I can confirm my feet have never been happier. Sandal season also calls for some snazzy new polish. I’m currently fawning over Chanel’s new Le Vernis collection which includes a pretty peppermint ‘Sea Sea Green’ (£25), which I’m alternating with Leighton Denny’s tango-tastic orange polish in ‘Main Squeeze’ (£13).
Another slightly less desirable beauty topic is deodorant, which several indie brands have taken pains to elevate into the luxury arena. I’m currently loving the US-based line
Megababe who have just landed on UK shores via Cult Beauty. It’s the brainchild of body-positivity influencer Katie Sturino, who has made it her mission to erase the taboo surrounding issues like under boob sweat, thigh chafe and BO — all of which can disproportionately affect us curvier ladies in the warmer weather. Their Body Dust (£17) can be used all over, from top to toe – while their Thigh Rescue Anti-Friction Stick (£12) pretty much does what it says on the tin. And their award-winning Rosy Pits (£12) underarm stick boasts a nourishing, non-irritating formula and, as the name suggests, an addictive rosy scent to boot.
For those of you who are after a skincare-inspired deodorant that lets the skin breathe and sweat within reason (it’s how the body removes toxins after all), a great product I’ve discovered whilst shvitzing in the States is Kosas Chemistry Deodorant (£14). Its roll-on formula exfoliates the skin and attacks the ‘bad’ bacteria that causes body odour, while leaving zero stains or marks on clothes. Natural deodorants are also getting more sophisticated – and if sweat is a serious issue, Haoma’s Comfort Organic Deodorant (£20) is a particularly clever concoction. One of the few completely natural formulas designed specifically for excessive sweat (caused by hyperhidrosis or menopause), it contains ingredients like clary sage and grapefruit to minimise any whiff, while tackling perspiration in the bargain. Not super glamorous — but essential for surviving the summer months. Your fellow commuters will thank you for it.