Even though the feet are not usually as exposed as the face and hands, they do need an equivalent amount of TLC. The most common problems are dry,
cracked heels and foot odor. The simple, effective, and inexpensive fixes in this chapter can solve those issues
in no time.
Lemon Peel Quick Fix
The following recipe may be one of the easiest, fastest, and funniest fixes for your heels. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, and the acidity retained in the peel or rind helps with dead cell exfoliation.
The regular use of a pumice stone during your shower is highly recommended.
INGREDIENTS
1 large lemon cut in half
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 pairs spa or winter socks (soft & plush, non-cotton)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Squeeze the juice out of the lemons and set it aside for another use. Place the
white inside of a rind against each heel, using bandages if needed to hold the
rinds in place against your heels.
2. Pull socks on over the rinds and keep them on for half an hour.
3. Remove your socks and the lemon rinds and massage 1 teaspoon of olive oil
into each foot, especially the heels. Put on another pair of socks for another 30
minutes to soften the heels further.
Foot Soak
Prepare this recipe at the end of a long day. Soak your feet to relax, get
rid of odor, and improve blood circulation. While ginger stimulates circulation,
rosemary relieves inflammation, mint takes away odors, and tea tree oil helps
kill bacteria. There is a small quantity of grape seed oil to soften and nourish the
feet.
INGREDIENTS
1 quart (1 liter) warm water (100° F) 2 cups (500 ml) mint tea
2 cups (500 ml) chamomile tea
2 cups (500 ml) rosemary infusion 1 tablespoon sea salt
1 teaspoon grated ginger
½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) tea tree oil 1 tablespoon grape seed oil
Note: You can substitute olive oil for grape seed oil, depending on availability.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Pour all ingredients (except the grape seed oil) into a wide foot spa or basin.
2. Make sure the water temperature is warm and pleasant. Soak your feet for 30
minutes.
3. Dry them with a towel and use a pumice stone to soften the skin and remove
dead skin cells. Finish by massaging the feet with the grape seed oil.
Foot Odor Neutralizing Formula
Have you ever thought of soaking your beauty brushes in white vinegar to clean and sanitize them? Well, this foot odor–killing recipe will make you appreciate the power of white vinegar. Mint contains menthol, which is refreshing and complements the odor-neutralizing properties of the lavender essential oil.
INGREDIENTS
2 quarts (2 liters) hot water (100° F) 2 cups (500 ml) mint tea
1 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons sea salt
½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) lavender essential oil
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Pour the water into a basin. Add the remaining ingredients, making sure to
dissolve the salt.
2. Soak your feet, sit back, and relax for 10 minutes. Rinse your feet with plain
water and pat them dry with a towel. Finish with a foot balm.
3. For longer-lasting results, repeat this foot bath on a weekly basis.
Cracked Heels Balm
The skin that covers the heels is thick and presents a strong barrier to moisturizers and creams. Regular foot care, including the use of a pumice stone, and a powerful balm are important to maintain soft heels.
INGREDIENTS
1 ounce (30 ml) grated beeswax (or pellets) 1 ounce (30 ml) shea butter
3 ounces (100 ml) almond oil
2 ounces (60 ml) olive oil
½ teaspoon lavender essential oil
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax and shea butter.
2. In another double boiler, heat the almond and olive oils, bringing both
mixtures to a similar temperature (100–120°F). Measure this using a candy
thermometer. Turn off the heat under the oils and slowly pour them into the
beeswax mixture, whisking constantly.
3. Turn off the heat under the beeswax, add the lavender essential oil, and
continue whisking.
4. Transfer the mixture to a tin box or glass jar, pouring slowly to release any
trapped air. Wait for the balm to reach room temperature before sealing the
lid. Set aside to solidify.
5. Apply a quarter-size amount of balm to each foot and rub it all over your feet,
focusing on the heel area. Rub a small amount of balm on your heels for a
minute or two to improve its penetration through the skin. Wear spa socks to
help keep the feet soft and moisturized.
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