Natural DIY pedicure that will leave your feet smoother than ever
After a lifetime of walking, running, unsupportive shoes and punishing high-heels, your feet aren’t quite the way they were in your 20s. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get them feeling soft, smooth and ready to take on the world. Over60 spoke to anti-ageing expert Judy Mills from Life Cell Australia about what you can do at home to get your feet looking – and feeling – better than ever.
“As we age, our feet become dryer and bear the brunt of decades of standing up and walking,” she explains. “Skin is less elastic and tears more easily. The combination of dry, less flexible skin can cause cracks, resulting in callouses, bunions, and spurs.”
For an easy, natural solution that smells as good as it makes you feel, Judy recommends a DIY coffee or sugar scrub.
“Mix coffee grounds (or sugar) with a little bit of coconut or olive oil to create a homemade exfoliator. Rub the product onto your feet gently, allow it to sit for a couple of minutes, and then rinse. You're now ready to apply an oil, cream, or balm. Spend a minute rubbing in your chosen oil every evening for a few weeks.”
Once you’ve used the homemade scrub, there are a number of kitchen staples and store-bought remedies free from nasty chemicals that you can use to nourish and moisturise your feet.
“Olive, avocado, and coconut oil are very effective moisturisers thanks to their high fatty acid content,” Judy reveals. “With regular use, they can definitely improve the look and feel of your feet. If you'd rather not use a cooking product, you can also try Earth's Best Non-Petroleum Jelly. It's similar to Vaseline, but, as the name suggests, without the petroleum.”
What tips do you have for other members of the Over60 community looking to revitalise their feet? Share them with us in the comment section below.