As warm weather arrives, our boots go back into storage and our sandals take center stage. But if your feet are feeling a bit more dry desert than summer oasis, you’re not alone. After months spent in socks and forgotten in routines, now’s the time to show your feet a little extra love.
The good news? Getting smooth, healthy-looking feet doesn’t always require a salon appointment. With the right care—and a simple daily ritual—you can reveal your most confident, sandal-ready soles yet.
Here are five expert tips to help you achieve perfect feet this summer (and keep them that way all year long).
Tips for soft, healthy-looking feet
1. Start with a soothing soak
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of dipping tired feet into warm water at the end of the day. Beyond relaxation, a 10–15 minute soak helps soften rough skin and prep your feet for exfoliation.
How to soak feet at home:
Fill a foot tub or your bath with warm (not hot) water. Add a handful of Epsom salts or a few drops of essential oil, like tea tree or lavender, for a spa-like experience. Breathe in, relax, and let the water do its work.
Bonus tip: Make it a ritual! Weekly foot soaks are a calming way to unwind while keeping dry skin and soreness at bay.
2. Gently exfoliate to reveal softer skin
Rough patches? Cracked heels? Regular exfoliation is the secret to smooth, soft feet.
After soaking, gently exfoliate using a pumice stone, foot file, or exfoliating scrub. Focus on areas prone to buildup, like the heels and balls of your feet. Avoid over-scrubbing—a light, circular motion is all you need.
Why it works: Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and encourages healthy skin renewal. It also allows your foot moisturizer to absorb more effectively.
3. Nourish with a hydrating foot cream
Moisture is key to preventing dryness and maintaining smooth, comfortable skin. But not just any cream will do—the skin on your feet is thicker and more prone to cracking, so it needs targeted hydration.
Try a formula designed specifically for foot care, like Uradin Podos Hydrating Gel Oil. This urea-based solution delivers long-lasting hydration and helps visibly improve rough, dry skin—all with a lightweight, non-greasy feel.
How to apply: After exfoliating or showering, massage your chosen formula into clean feet, focusing on heels, arches, and any dry zones.
4. Don’t forget your nails
Healthy toenails are an essential part of beautiful feet. Keep nails trimmed and clean to avoid discomfort or discoloration.
Here’s how:
- Trim toenails straight across using clean, dedicated clippers.
- Soak feet before trimming to soften nails and reduce the risk of splitting.
- File any sharp edges gently, and clean beneath each nail with a soft brush or swab.
- Give your nails a breather between polish applications, and always use a base coat to help prevent staining.
A little attention goes a long way. Well-cared-for nails help your feet look naturally polished—no pedicure required.
5. Make foot care part of your daily routine
Consistency is the real secret to perfect feet. Instead of viewing foot care as an afterthought or only for special occasions, try weaving it into your everyday skincare habits.
You don’t need a full routine every night—just a quick post-shower massage with hydrating foot cream can help maintain softness, prevent cracked heels, and give your feet the care they deserve.
Bonus tip: Slip on cotton socks after moisturizing to lock in hydration overnight and wake up to softer soles.
Beautiful feet start with everyday care
Perfect feet look different for everyone—it’s all about feeling comfortable, confident, and cared for in your own skin. Whether you’re heading to the beach or just enjoying barefoot mornings at home, a simple, soothing foot care routine can help you get there.
Behind the blog:
Article written and reviewed by:
Amy is a content strategist who turned a part-time obsession with skincare into a full-time passion. Her experience as a creative storyteller includes a range of lifestyle and technology topics across Washington D.C. and Barcelona. What's in her travel bag? Eye contour cream and sunscreen, always.
