If you have diabetes, you know that taking care of your feet is essential. So follow our advice to keep feet healthy, and don’t hesitate to see your doctor or podiatrist as often as possible to get their best advice.
Manicure Secrets
You only have to look at a person’s fingernails to get an idea of their character. Dirty and bitten nails with exposed cuticles tell everyone that you are not taking care of yourself. For a professional-looking manicure, follow this expert advice:
- Remove nail polish with an acetone-free remover.
- File your nails giving them a rounded shape, or square if you prefer.
- Dip your fingertips in a bowl of hot water or apply a special product on cuticles to soften them and then use a small wooden stick to push them back. If you cut your cuticles, put on a special cream first before discreetly cutting the excess.
- Wash your hands with soap and water using a nail brush. Dry them thoroughly and then massage them with a hand cream.
- Clean your nails with a cotton-tipped wooden stick. Then apply a clear base and two coats of varnish and finish with a top coat.
Pedicure Secrets
Taking care of your feet is a supreme luxury that few people allow themselves to enjoy.
- Fill a tub with hot water and add salt baths and one tablespoon of olive oil, and soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Use a body scrub to exfoliate the sole of your feet, and a grater for calluses.
- Cut your toenails and file them to give them a square shape. Gently push back the cuticles (do not cut).
- Dry your feet and apply moisturizer.
- Coat the nail with a base before applying two coats of varnish and a top coat.
Treating Minor Hand and Feet Ailments
Hand and feet problems can become a daily trial. Here are solutions to some common conditions:
Eczema
The causes: Dry and irritated skin that cracks on the fingers is often caused by too frequent hand washing.
The solution: A moisturizer to strengthen the skin barrier. Washing hands less frequently. Avoid strong detergents that may cause irritation.
Try: Wearing gloves when washing dishes or cleaning.
Calluses
The causes: A thickening of the skin resulting from the pressure of a bone underlying the skin.
The solution: Regularly use a pumice stone to remove calluses. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight and heels, which apply even more pressure on the toes.
Try: Wearing a special sole to reduce pressure on the calluses.
Athlete’s foot
The causes: Moisture and perspiration promote the growth of fungi.
The solution: See a dermatologist who will prescribe a special cream. Let your skin breathe as much as possible by using talcum powder to keep feet dry, and avoid wearing leather shoes.
Try: Putting a small piece of cotton between each toe so they do not rub against each other.