Do your feet get cracked and dry in the winter? Do you experience foot pain? Feet health is an often overlooked aspect of your skincare/body care routine. However it’s vitally important to look after your feet; you’re on them all day and you only get one pair! Here are 5 tips for maintaining healthy and happy feet:

1. Wear shoes that fit – Ill-fitting shoes is one of the biggest offenders for foot pain, blisters, ingrown toenails, callouses and cracked heels. This is because the tight shoes rub against the skin, weakening it over time, and squeeze your muscles, joints and toenails. Have your shoes fitted by a professional if you’re not sure what size you are.

2. Clean your feet – Scrub them daily in the shower and always wash them after exercise. Watch out for athlete’s foot and nail fungus – these can be picked up from communal showers and love a moist environment, so make sure you’re drying your feet well after you clean them.

3. Moisturise – It’s important to do this daily to prevent dry skin and cracking, which occurs more and more as you get older.

4. Stretch your feet – Most people don’t think of doing this, but foot stretches can help with pains and aches, especially if you’re on your feet all day. Try grabbing your toes with one hand and pulling them towards your ankle until you feel the stretch. Hold for 10 seconds, then repeat.

5. See a specialist if you have persisting problems – If you notice bunions, plantar warts, ingrown toenails or you have constant discomfort, go see a podiatrist.

How do you look after your feet? Share your tips in the comments!