How to care for your feet
Choose the right footwear :
If you wear shoes that are ill-fitting, painful or loose, you're inviting foot problems. Your shoes have to fit just right, neither too tight nor too loose. Shoes that are tight are known to cause corns, ingrown toenails and aches. On the other hand, shoes that are loose, don't allow your your heels from settling in properly, increasing your chances of blisters, calluses and sore heels.
Always buy footwear at the latter part of the day because your feet expand towards the end of the day. Avoid wearing heels regularly — they can damage the bones of your feet. Instead, opt for a comfortable pair of flats or one inch heels from daily wear.
Shoes made out of synthetics don't breathe well because they trap moisture and heat; go in for natural materials like leather and cotton which keep feet cool. Try and alternate your shoes, so that both pairs have a chance to dry out before being worn again.
Wash your feet :
While washing your feet daily in the shower is a must, make it a habit to wash them at the end of the day as well. Especially if you wear closed shoes, the moisture and sweat makes it easy for bacteria and fungi to flourish between your toes causing bad odour and even fungal infections. Washing your feet will ensure that nothing dirty accumulates. Dry your feet well and use a foot powder if you want.
Moisturise well :
If you moisturise your body, why skip your feet? While the skin on your feet is rougher (because of the daily wear and tear), it is also more prone to being drier and cracked. Use a lotion, which is rich in cocoa butter, which is a natural emollient and excellent for feet. Apply it when you go to bed at night and wear socks so that the lotion can stay on yout feet instead of getting rubbed off on the sheets. Even if you're at home, make it a habit to wear socks....whether you've moisturised your feet or no. Socks protect your feet from blisters and absorb moisture.
Go for regular walks :
While we tend to be on our feet all day long, regular exercise for your feet is also important. Your foot muscles need exercise to remain strong, and keep tendons and ligaments flexible. You can use arch support inserts if you like. These keep your feet in the correct position and support your weight when you walk.
Have regular pedicures :
Treat yourself to a pedicure once a month at least. Soaking your feet and exfoliating your soles makes them softer and healthier. Whether you do it at home or a parlour, your feet will be happy for the pampering.