Recognising when your feet need some TLC

It’s usually easy to see when your hands need some sprucing up, especially as they’re constantly on show. Feet, though, being hidden in shoes most of the day, often become neglected – out of sight, out of mind. There are simple signs to know that your feet need some TLC, which we’ll discuss below. The best way to give your feet the love they deserve is through regular pedicures. But knowing how often they’re needed can be dependent on various lifestyle factors and preferences. Continue reading to find out how often we recommend pedicures. And if you’re not sure exactly what a pedicure entails, read our “What is a pedicure‘ article first, then come back here to get pedi-savvy!

Tell-tale signs you need a pedicure

There are certain signs that your feet desperately need some care, like cracked heels, ingrown nails, corns and calluses. All of these issues, if left untreated, often worsen and may require a visit to a podiatrist. On an aesthetic level, untidy cuticles and unevenly shaped toenails are a sign that a pedicure is due. When it comes to foot health and beauty, it is all about prevention. Regular pedicures can act as a preventative measure entirely, and make sure your feet are always looking and feeling their best.

Our nail gurus at LeSalon advise weekly or fortnightly pedicures, depending on your lifestyle and other factors. The longest you should go without one is a month, and in the meantime focus on moisturising and using a pumice stone on any hard or excess skin.

Lifestyle Factors:

Activity Levels

If you’re more of an avid hiker, runner or football player, than a fluffy slipper-wearing homebody, weekly pedicures are likely in order. All of the pressure on your soles can easily form calluses. If you drive your car more than you walk, or spend most of your day at a desk, you could get away with monthly pedicures.

Beauty Preferences

For some, foot care is more about polished nails than pumice stones. In that case, weekly or fortnightly pedis are probably your best bet. If you stick to Shellac polish, pedicures every other week will do. If you use classic polish, a weekly pedi would be better. Just recognise that sometimes your nails do need some breathing space. Constantly wearing polish can chip or stain your nails. Though, this really depends on your nails and which polish brands work for you. Some products, like Nailberry’s 5-free polishes, have low toxicity and allow your nails to breathe while wearing it.

Stress Levels

If you live a stressful life, more regular pedicures can help you unwind. Sinking into a chair while your pedicurist tends to your nails, and exfoliates and massages your feet is a truly relaxing experience. It’s like a facial for your feet! Pedicures are a bit of a double whammy – TLC for your feet, but also for yourself as a whole.

Footwear

Do you wear ill-fitting shoes or squeeze into high heels every day for work? Your feet probably need some extra loving. The extra pressure points around the ball of the foot and toes can lead to some painful calluses and corns, which need constant maintenance to prevent painful progressions. A weekly pedicure is ideal in this situation.

Seasonal Changes

Most people will amp up their pedicure regime during the warmer summer months. With sandals and barefoot days at the beach, it is natural for appearance’s sake to hit the salon more frequently. We advocate this but remember not to neglect your feet during the winter. There’s more to pedicures than polished nails – it’s about the health of your feet too.

We all live busy lives. From school runs to gym classes to late nights at the office, it can be difficult to schedule time for regular pedicures. Travelling to and from the salon can eat up precious time. Luckily, beauty apps like LeSalon allow you to book pedicures at your home or office – no salon trip necessary.

As mentioned, foot care is about prevention – don’t wait for painful heels or chipped nails to happen. Stay ahead of the game and go for regular pedicures. Focus on at-home care too. Everyone has a unique set of lifestyle factors, so will need TLC in differing amounts. So what do you think – is it time for your next pedi? Why not book with us, and we’ll have your feet in tip-top shape in no time!