Baker's Best of Health

Spring is here and warm weather won’t be far behind. So are you ready for sandal weather yet? Don’t worry—there’s still plenty of time to whip your winter-weary feet into shape for barefootin’ and flip-floppin’. But there’s no need to plunk down $25 or more for a professional pedicure, when you can DIY for pennies. Here’s how:

1. Conquer the calluses. The next time you take a bath, treat your feet to a moisturizing salt rub. Moisten a handful of Epsom salts with a small amount of almond or olive oil. Then scrub your feet until the salt’s dissolved and the oil has softened your skin.
2. Soften your heels. Rub a half a lemon on your heels to promote smoother skin.
3. Tend your toenails. Nails are vulnerable to fungus infections that can cause discoloration and deformity. The best treatment is to keep your toes as clean and dry as possible.
4. Get help from herbs. Calcium and magnesium are essential to nail health. Make a mineral-packed herbal potion by mixing together equal parts of nettles (which is rich in both calcium and magnesium), horsetail, and oats. Steep 1 heaping teaspoon in 1 cup of hot water for 10 minutes, and drink 1 to 2 cups daily.
5. Make it a multi. A daily multivitamin will help ensure that your body has the right nutrition for proper nail growth. Healthy nails are less likely to become ingrown or infected.

Start following these steps now so your feet are ready for their close-up once the temps start to rise.