Dr. Sarah's Perfect Pedicure Must-Haves
Give yourself the ultimate pedicure with rejuvenating products and tips straight from the doctor herself!
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Photo By: Instagram: @doctor.haller
Dr. Sarah is a foot and ankle surgeon based in New York and New Jersey. Not only is she an expert on foot health, but she also knows a thing or two about achieving a safe and rejuvenating at-home pedicure. Here are the My Feet Are Killing Me surgeon's top 10 tips and products.
Epson Salts
"Soaking in warm water with epsom will help open your pores and get rid of dead skin, but it also helps relieve tired, achy feet. Just a tablespoon is needed twice per week to see results."
BUY IT: Amazon, $19.00
Orange Sticks
"It’s super important NOT to cut the cuticle of the nail. This is how infections start and can cause long-term issues with nail growth. Instead, try to keep them maintained by gently pushing them back and inline with the base of the nail plate."
BUY IT: Amazon, $4.79
Nail Brush
"When you shower, all the dead skin cells from the body gather around the nail plates of the toes. Using a nail brush weekly will prevent hardening of this buildup that can cause pain and inflammation around the nail. Start at the base of the nail and brush away from you."
BUY IT: Amazon, $5.98
Pumice Stone
"Make sure it’s not a cheese grater-type device. Those can be harmful and take off too much skin. It’s better to have a fine and coarse grit to allow for better control and care of the feet. This will help get rid of cracks and calluses."
BUY IT: Amazon, $25.00
Nail Clipper
"Clean is critical. Make sure you have your own instruments, to ensure safety. Bacteria thrive in and around the toes, so it’s best to clean the clipper with warm, soapy water before and after using."
BUY IT: Amazon, $13.79
Nail File
"Get those corners! Despite what you may think, you don’t want to cut into the corners to prevent ingrown nails. Instead, cut straight across and file a rounded nail edge to prevent digging in — it'll save yourself a trip to the doctors office. Plus, this one is washable!"
BUY IT: Amazon, $5.50
Lotion
"This specific kind helps break down unwanted callouses when used regularly. It’s important to know that lotion is water-based while cream is oil-based. I prefer lotion on feet, it’s less likely to cause sweat glands to be clogged, which can cause sweat and smells."
BUY IT: Amazon, $9.29
Nail Buffer
"These little squares pack a big punch. A couple swipes on each side will take away layers on the top of the nail. By doing this, irregularities from previous polish and divots in the nail can be buffed out without hurting the nail plate."
BUY IT: Amazon, $3.69
Base Coat
"This is an important step, especially when using a nail color over top. This will protect the nail as well as prevent discoloration after you take off the polish."
BUY IT: Amazon, $9.99
Chemical-free Nail Polish
"Chemical-free is the best! Yes, they are more pricey, but treat your nails kindly. They protect the skin and bone right under them."
BUY IT: Amazon, $10.49
Tea Tree Oil
"It’s packed with natural anti-fungal properties and will help resolve brittle nails after keeping nail polish on for too long (or when using so much hand sanitizer). This is a must-have for any pedicure cabinet. Apply one time daily with a Q-tip to the tip of the nail plate. It’ll do the rest!"
BUY IT: Amazon, $7.99
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