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If you have ever wanted a beauty insider's guide to the best at-home pedicure, then you will love this tutorial from beauty expert Skyy Hadley.
The tools you need to get a spa-like pedicure at home:
· Cuticle remover
· Cuticle pusher
· Cuticle nipper
· Nail clippers
· Nail file
· Nail polish remover
· Cotton balls or pads
· Base and top coat
Here is a step-by-step guide to get the perfect pedicure:
· Apply cuticle remover and allow it to sit for the time indicated on the packaging
· Using a cuticle pusher, push cuticles back away from the base of your toenails. Clean feet with your body wash or soap to wash away cuticle remover
· Use a cuticle nipper to very carefully remove any loose cuticle or hangnails. You don’t want to cut into your cuticles. Nicking this area can lead to infection.
· If necessary, trim nails down to a good length
· Use a nail file to smooth and shape your toenails
· Using a cotton ball or pad, wipe each toenail with nail polish remover to remove excess oils
· Next, apply a base coat to all toenails
· Add nail color, apply two coats
· Clean up, use a nail brush or an orangewood stick and polish remover to remove any polish slips
· Finish by applying a clear top coat to protect your work
To make your feet less rough/sough stick your feet in a tub of warm water for about 15 minutes. You can add a capful of distilled white vinegar and/or a few drops of tea tree oil if you’re concerned about fungal infections. For water retention or particularly achy feet, toss in a couple of tablespoons of Epsom salts. Next, to slough off the dead skin, gently dry your feet, then have at the bottom of your feet with a serious foot file. I recommend using a Ped Egg to get rid of the dead skin.
For applying polish to prevent chipping or smudging reapply a layer or clear topcoat every two to three days.
Skyy Hadley recommends using two particular products to make your pedicure last longer:
· Lauren B. Gel-Like Top Coat ( gives you a long-lasting gleam without all the harmful chemicals.
· Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil increases nail flexibility and helps softens nails.
I really really need a pedicure about now. Thank you for going through the steps to do it the right way!
ReplyDeleteSo do I! You are very welcome, Allison!
DeleteI hate doing my own toes! I usually wait until I can get to a salon, but these are good tips for the DIY'ers!
ReplyDeleteIt definitely takes some effort doing them, and getting a pedicure at a salon is certainly a more pampered experience!
DeleteAhhh... I could use a nice pedicure, right now!
ReplyDeleteYou and me both, Erika.
DeleteMy home pedicures are not nearly this good!
ReplyDeleteMine generally tend to be fast and skip many of these steps!
DeleteThanks for sharing your own approach
ReplyDeleteThis is actually Skyy Hadley's method, I wish that I could take credit!
DeleteAs often as I do my own maicures, my toes could definitely use a little tlc.
ReplyDeleteI know just what you mean!
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