Razors
A big no-no.
Pumice stones
For callus softening or removal, a pumice stone is your best friend. “You’re not really soaking the foot and shaving off calluses,” says Kieu Nguyen of Mint Nail Salon. “You are just removing dead skin from surface.” She recommends using a pumice stone once or twice a week. Lotion on your heels. Soak for 1-2 minutes, then use a pumice stone in a circular motion for 1-2 minutes to scrub (not too hard or too lightly).
Foot peels
Reece Gutierrez of Holy Chic does like the cult-favorite Baby Foot treatment. “It will get all of that dead skin off. As long as you’re not using it longer than it’s telling you, it is totally fine,” she says.
Gel kits
“I recommend having nails done professionally,” says Nguyen. “Gel kits are hard to apply and you have to know the right technique to do it. You want to make sure you apply in the correct order. If you don’t, you are doing more damage than good. Professionals know the product, what is in the product and the right fit for you nails: type of nail bed (dry, oily) and the brand of the polish is important as well.” If it’s not a standard in your nail routine, Nguyen says go for it: “You can use for travel or every now and then, but if doing regularly, go to a professional.”
(May 2018)
