Press Release Document
Step 1: Prep
Start by removing old polish with acetone polish remover, then soak feet in a warm bath. Sally Beauty Supply carries a Heel to Toe inflatable pedi bath that is easier to store than a hard foot bath. Fill with warm water and then add a foot soak like the Heel to Toe Foaming Foot Soak. A soak is going to begin to soften skin, deodorize and cleanse. The aromatherapy will help to refresh and invigorate your feet. You can also add an effervescent whitening soak to remove stains and whiten nails. OrigiNails Bubble White works wonders on nails stained from dark polishes.
Step 2: Exfoliate
Next use a foot file or a pumice stone to smooth softened calluses. For especially rough spots use a pumice stone or file like the Mr. Pumice Pumi Bar. It’s two-sided to target different problem spots on your feet. Apply a cuticle remover to the cuticles. In general try not to cut your cuticles as it can actually promote hangnails or infect the area. While the cuticle remover is doing its job, trim toenails and shape the nails with a fine-grit cushioned file.
Step 3: Moisturize
Once you have removed all the rough skin it is time to restore the moisture lost during months of cold weather. For severely dry skin try a masque. A hydrating masque is enhanced with mineral clays and sea extracts that condition and soothe feet. Apply a thick layer of masque to the entire foot and ankle area. Cover foot with warm towel or even a plastic bag and let rest for five to ten minutes. Unwrap foot and rinse off – you may need to use a soft scrub brush. Finish this step with a refreshing pedicure lotion.
Step 3: Finishing Touch
So now that your feet look sandal-ready, you can finish with a fresh spring polish color. Before you apply your base coat, wipe nails with a cotton ball soaked in acetone. This will remove any excess oil that will prevent the polish from adhering. Use toe separators or cotton balls to spread toes and help prevent any polish smudges. FingerPaints Turquoise Tile and Strawberry Shake are great colors for spring and summer. A topcoat with UV protection will also keep your polish from yellowing which can be a problem for light colored polishes during the summer months.
Ernie McCraw is a licensed cosmetologist and director of beauty education for Sally Beauty Supply, the world’s largest distributor of professional beauty products. With more than 25 years in the beauty industry, Ernie has expertise in all phases of cosmetology. If you have a beauty question, please e-mail Ernie at asksally@sallybeauty.com. To find a Sally store near you, call 800-ASK-SALLY or go to www.sallybeauty.com.