Autumn foot care: how to care for your feet after summer

When summer ends and it's time to wear closed-toe shoes again, remembering to take care of your feet can be a daunting task. But just because you're no longer wearing your favorite pair of gladiator sandals doesn't mean you should completely ignore those toes, especially as the drier winter months approach. Here's how to take care of your feet this fall and keep them in sandal shape all year round.

EXHAUST

As you may already know, exfoliation is the first step to smooth, hydrated skin. It's because exfoliation sloughs off dead skin cells that live on the surface of the skinexposing skin ready to absorb moisture. And just like exfoliation can make skin smooth on the face and body, it can work the same magic on our feet. Applying a physical exfoliator specifically formulated to combat rough skin on the feet, such as The Body Shop Cooling Pumice and Mint Foot Scrub once to twice a week, can remove dry skin and leave skin feeling healthier, softer, and hydrated. We love the Peppermint Cooling Pumice Foot Scrub because it not only cleanses dry skin, it also cools tired, aching feet.

The Body Shop Peppermint Cooling Pumice Foot Scrub, $ 14

DON'T FORGET TO MOISTURIZE

Remember to moisturize your feet and it can make a big difference and it really comes down to habit. Every time you hydrate your body, hydrate your feet as well. You can use the same lotion as for the body, but if you've neglected it for too long, we recommend trying a moisturizer or balm designed for dry or callused areas, such as Kiehl's Intensive Treatment and Moisturizer for Dry or Callused Areas. . Formulated to soothe dry, chapped skin, this intensive treatment targets rough skin on the feet to give it the extra care and attention it needs. Use it in the evening before going to bed or in the morning before putting on your favorite fall boots.

Kiehl's Intensive Treatment and Moisturizer for Dry or Callused Areas, $ 26

INVEST IN PUMICE

Exfoliating can be a great way to slough off dead skin cells on your feet and ankles, but when it comes to the bottom of your feet — the calloused areas — we might need something a little more intense. The Body Shop's No More Rough Stuff pumice stone can help you polish away rough areas of your foot, such as heels, caused by months of wearing and neglecting sandals. Use it in the bath or shower once a week with your favorite foot scrub or body wash to remove stubborn dead skin cells.

Pumice stone The Body Shop No More Rough Stuff, $ 6

DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR NAILS

We spend all this time focusing on our fingernails that, aside from choosing between what color to paint them, it can be easy to forget about our toenails. Make it a habit to rub cuticle oil on your nails every night before bed. This will not only moisturize your cuticles and the skin around your toenails, but it will also extend the life of your pedicure. We love Essie's Apricot Cuticle Oil as it hydrates, nourishes and revitalizes cuticles, plus it has a sweet apricot scent! 

Cuticle Oil Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil, $8.50

DEEP CONDITIONING THEM WITH COCONUT OIL

Coconut oil is a source of hydration and as the climate gets drier and drier, your feet need the most hydration they can get. Our favorite way to pamper your feet with this delightful ingredient is to use it as a deep conditioner at night. To do this, simply apply coconut oil to your feet and ankles and wrap them in cling film. Put on a pair of your favorite fluffy socks and let the oil work its magic while you sleep. 

GIVE YOUR MOST PEDICURE 

Just because sandal season is over doesn't mean it's time to ditch the pedicure. Instead of going to a nail salon, why not give yourself a DIY pedicure at home? We share how, here.