Aging, poor diet, dry climates, improper hygiene, prolonged standing and repeated soaking in hot water can all cause dry, rough feet. While prevention and making the requisite lifestyle changes are key to prevent dry feet, you can treat them naturally at home.
Place a pair of thick socks in the dryer for five minutes, or lay them on a heater until they're warm. It's important to use warm socks, as the heat helps the oil penetrate the skin.
Wash your feet thoroughly with warm water and soap. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
Apply a thick application of canola or vegetable oil to the soles of the feet. Concentrate on the driest, roughest part.
Slip on your warm, thick socks. Sleep in them overnight.
Wash your feet in the morning. Repeat this process daily until your feet are noticeably softer, usually in three or four days.
References
- Reader's Digest: Extraordinary Uses for Vegetable Oil
- "Natural foot care;" Stephanie L. Tourles; 1997
Writer Bio
Lane Cummings is originally from New York City. She attended the High School of Performing Arts in dance before receiving her Bachelor of Arts in literature and her Master of Arts in Russian literature at the University of Chicago. She has lived in St. Petersburg, Russia, where she lectured and studied Russian. She began writing professionally in 2004 for the "St. Petersburg Times."