You can achieve tidy toes and simple nail art at home with a gentle pedicure routine and easy designs. Follow these steps for a polished look.
A gentle at-home pedicure routine
- Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 5-10 minutes to soften the skin and nails.
- Gently exfoliate your feet with a pumice stone or foot scrub, focusing on rough areas like heels.
- Pat your feet dry and trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails.
- Push back cuticles gently with a cuticle stick — never cut them, as this can lead to infection.
- Moisturise your feet with a rich cream, paying attention to dry areas.
Shaping and what never to cut
Always trim toenails straight across rather than rounding the edges, as curved cuts can increase the risk of ingrown nails. Avoid cutting cuticles, as they protect the nail bed from bacteria.
Three simple, durable toe designs
- Classic French Tips: Use a white nail polish to paint the tips of your nails, then seal with a clear top coat.
- Polka Dots: Apply a base colour, let it dry, then use a dotting tool or toothpick to create small dots in a contrasting shade.
- Stripes: Use striping tape or a thin brush to paint vertical or horizontal lines over a base coat.
Signs a foot issue needs a professional
If you notice persistent pain, swelling, redness, or signs of infection like pus, consult a clinician. These could indicate issues like ingrown nails or fungal infections that require professional care.