In what is an unregulated industry in New Zealand, taking a gamble on where to get a clean and safe pedicure is my life’s work. Lately, I have honed my DIY skills with some of our favourite beauty buys to create a spa-like vibe at home. Here’s how I am getting my feet sandal ready for summer, says editor Trudi Brewer.
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Step 1: Prep Your Feet
First, remove nail polish. Then fill your bathtub or a large bowl with warm weather and soak your feet in water for about five to 10 minutes. Next, use a toenail clipper to cut the toenails, dry your feet, and apply a body scrub. Concentrate on the dry skin around your toes and heels. Then soak your feet for another ten minutes.
Pure Fiji Sugar Rub, $55.
Nothing gives skin a new lease on life like this luxurious (lasts forever) body scrub. The sugar cane crystals are stacked with alpha hydroxyl acids that buff away dry, dead skin cells without you having to do much. At the same time, the blend of cold-pressed virgin coconut oil and exotic nut extracts get your skin glowing - it’s a staple in our beauty arsenal. With nine tropical flavours to choose from, pictured here is the classic Coconut; it’s the best there, I have said it.
Manicare CHIROPODY PLIERS, $35.
Every girl must be armed with a decent and sturdy pair of toenails clippers. These are the best we have found.
Step 2: Remove dry skin
Use a foot file or pumice on the soles of your feet to get your skin smooth. Rinse off your feet and dry them with a towel and then massage a lightweight moisturiser to your feet.
Manicare PEDIPRO CALLUS FILE, $29.
The ultimate cheese-grater-like foot file. It is double-sided with optional so if your skin is very calloused, go with the coarse file, or if you just need a light buff, switch to the fine grit file. to suit your needs. The non-slip handle makes it so simple to use.
Manicare PEDIPRO SOFT ROC FOOT EXFOLIATOR, $18.
Keep this foot exfoliator in the shower to groom your feet whenever necessary. It’s the ideal shape to fit perfectly in your hand, so once your feet are wet, buff in circular movements to remove that dry, cracked skin on the heels or your toes.
Step 3: Build a pedicure kit
I always have the basics on standby, including a good nail buffer to remove nail polish staining. Remover wipes (these are great for travel), a good cuticle oil (your toes need just as much love as yours, and neutral polish. When you paint your toenails, apply two coats and finish with a top coat. A salon-looking DIY pedicure requires time, and a long weekend, while bingeing on a Netflix series is ideal.
Manicare Buffer Maxi, $14. Revitanail Nourish Oil,$19. Manicare Conditioning Nail Polish Remover Wipes, $6. Smith & Cult Nail Lacquer in Sugarette, $35.
A DIY two-step mani that promises to cure weak, brittle nails.