Simple steps to summer-ready feet

Our feet are unique “The skin on the bottom of the foot is different from the rest of the skin on our body – it’s up to 20 times thicker, with no hair and with a higher concentration of sweat glands,” says Dr Jo McCardle, expert podiatrist at Scholl. “There are no oil-secreting glands, so feet don’t produce as much natural moisturiser. When we walk, we create a lot of friction. Although this allows the skin to thicken and create a protective barrier, too much pressure and friction can trigger excessive thickening, resulting in the build-up of problematic hard skin. Regular care is the key to keeping this at bay.”

TOP TIPS FOR FAB FEET

Dina Gohil, expert podiatrist for CCS Foot Care, says:

Check in: Take time to look over your feet and toenails. Notice changes to the appearance of your feet, or if there are any aches and pains, as it’s important to address any issues early. Some common foot problems that people can experience include dry or hard skin, calluses, fungal skin and nail infections, ingrown toenails, cracked heels and verrucas.

Rejuvenate: Restore feet to their former glory by removing hard skin. On dry feet, use a foot file or pumice stone once a week to buff away dead skin cells. Next, apply a good foot cream that contains naturally antibacterial and antifungal urea, such as CCS Foot Care Cream, £8.49. For extra TLC, try an at-home peeling treatment such as the AHA-packed Footner Exfoliating Socks, £9.99.

Moisturise: To help maintain the smooth, soft feel, make footcare part of your daily routine. The easiest way to do this is to use a specially formulated foot cream (not a body cream) every day. Try Burt’s Bees Coconut Foot Cream, £13.49. Smooth it over your feet and gently massage the skin – try it just before you go to bed to repair your feet overnight, making it part of your wind-down routine.

Nail SOS: Check toenails weekly and ensure nails are cut regularly using nail clippers or scissors. Wash feet in warm, soapy water daily and always be sure to clean and dry them properly, especially between the toes, because this is a prime location for fungal infections to develop. Address any signs of nail fungus early, including discoloured nails (white marks or a yellow/brown tone) and a change in texture, such as thick nails, with a treatment such as Nailner Fungal Nail Infection 2-in-1 Brush, £2.49, which both treats the nail and brightens.

Fab footwear: The best shoes for your feet are ones that fit comfortably in every dimension: depth, width and length. Footwear that supports your ankle and midfoot when you walk or run, and shoes that are breathable, will help keep a healthy environment for your feet. Keep flip flops for the beach, and invest in your feet this summer.

POLISH PERFECTION

Have some fun with your feet. A slick of polish can brighten up even the most tired of toes. Try our top picks for the season ahead:

Dior Nail Lacquer in Solar Bronze, £27 – a luxurious-looking pale gold.