Pamper Your Feet, Naturally

Reader Contribution by Camille Leinbach
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Camille is a licensed aesthetician and operator of Autumn Moon Aesthetics. Her holistic skin care practice incorporates natural, homemade products, herbal therapy, aromatherapy and energetic bodywork. She encourages individuals to become more connected to their body and the Earth by creating natural products themselves at home. Visit her blog at www.skincareforyoursoul.blogspot.com

A scary thing happens when spring comes in Michigan. We finally take off our winter boots and socks.

Yes, after nearly seven long months of being bundled up, we are forced to uncover our feet and begin thinking about wearing sandals. (Gasp!) My feet are always a wreck come spring despite my best efforts to keep feet soft and smooth during the colder months.

Not to worry–nature has given us some wonderful tools to remedy dry, rough and generally gnarly feet. By following this simple and luxurious two-part spa treatment, your feet will be on their way from ghastly to gorgeous!

Just a few natural ingredients can make your feet feel soft and smooth.
Photo by Spa Pantry/Courtesy Universal Companies

STEP ONE: Soothing Peppermint Foot Soak

The first part of the treatment is a soothing foot soak. The Epsom salts in the soak act to soothe aches and pains, while also softening the skin. The powdered milk soothes skin and offers a gentle exfoliation of dry skin because of the natural lactic acid. The peppermint oil will invigorate your feet. It also helps to relieve itchy, hot or swollen feet.

• 1/2 cup Epsom salts
• 2 tablespoons powdered milk
• 6 drops peppermint essential oil

1. Blend all ingredients in a small glass bowl.

2. Stir ingredients into a large bowl or basin of warm (not hot) water (large enough to place both feet into).

3. Soak feet for 5 to 10 minutes.

Soothe tired feet with Epsom salts and milk.
Photo by Camille Leinbach

STEP TWO: Whipped Lemongrass Foot Scrub

The second part to this indulgent treatment is a moisturizing whipped foot scrub. The coconut, jojoba and grapeseed oils act as emollients that hydrate the skin and lock in the moisture after using the foot soak. The sugar provides a thorough exfoliation of the skin. Lemongrass essential oil has antiseptic qualities and is both refreshing and relaxing at the same time.  

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 teaspoon jojoba oil
• 1/4 teaspoon grapeseed oil
• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil
• 1/4 cup raw sugar (less if you want a less exfoliating scrub)

1. Whip the coconut, jojoba and grapeseed oils in a glass bowl with a hand mixer or whisk.

2. Gently fold in the raw sugar.

3. After enjoying the Soothing Peppermint Foot Soak, rub the foot scrub in vigorous circular motions, including the feet and the lower leg (if you choose).

4. Leave the scrub on for 10 to 15 minutes as you relax. You can even wrap your feet with warm, damp hand towels while you luxuriate! Remove with a warm, damp washcloth.

5. Store in an airtight glass jar. Enjoy this treatment one to two times a week for best results.  

Exfoliate and moisturize skin with a raw sugar and coconut oil foot scrub.
Photo by Camille Leinbach

Now your feet are flip-flop ready!

NOTE: Please take care to not use these treatments on skin with any open wounds, abrasions or inflamed or irritated skin conditions. Omit the essential oils if you have sensitive skin, skin allergies, are pregnant, or simply don’t happen to have them on hand. You will still receive the benefits of the treatment.

  • Published on Apr 22, 2011
Tagged with: Reader Contributions
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