Six simple steps to sexy feet

We often neglect our feet during the monsoon and then panic when our tootsies aren't in tip-top condition.  But regular pedicures can be costly, so here we show you how to rid yourself of those embarrassing cracked heels, dry skin and chipped toenails. All you have to do is follow our simple six-step guide to fabulous-looking feet.

STEP 1

First, give your feet a good soak. Add some bath salts into a tub. Let your feet soak for five to 10 minutes. This will soften them, making it easier to slough away dry dead skin when you come to exfoliate. A soaking is also a great way of soothing tired feet after a long hard day.

STEP 2

Getting rid of dead skin is the next stage. Buy a foot scrub, which is preferably made from natural pumice and exfoliants to buff and polish rough, dry skin, leaving your feet soft and smooth. It's important to exfoliate your feet at least once or twice a week if you want to keep them looking good. Make it part of your beauty ritual, just as you would with your face and the rest of your body.

STEP 3

After you've finished scrubbing, give your feet a rinse, lightly pat them dry. They should still be damp. Using a pumice stone or a foot file, smooth away that calloused skin, paying extra attention to your heels and the balls of the feet, which is where hard skin tends to form.

STEP 4

Once you've got your feet feeling silky smooth, it's important to moisturise as this will prevent dry skin and keep your feet soft. A foot cream or a body lotion will work wonders. This hydrates, cools and refreshes your skin. Avoid greasy lotions, especially if you're slipping into a pair of sandals straight after the pedicure. These are dust magnets and will quickly make feet dirty.

STEP 5

Now it's time to tackle your toes. Start by giving your nails a trim — you'll find clippers make the job easy. Remember to not cut them too short as this can lead to infection. Next use a nail file to smooth out rough edges and shape the nails. Try to keep them square as this will prevent ingrowing toenails.

STEP 6

Use a cuticle cream or oil, which nourishes and moisturises to make them smoother and softer. When the skin has softened, use a wooden cuticle stick to push them back. Follow this with a pop of your favourite bright nail polish.