Use a foot scrub. [3] X Research source This is the safest option for your feet because there is no risk of friction-related injuries. There are many specialized exfoliating scrubs available at most stores. All you do is rub the foot scrub over your feet to be rid of dead, dry skin. Another way to safely soften your feet and get rid of cracked or dead skin is to use ceramic stones made for exfoliating. These stones, like a foot scraper, usually have both rough and finer sides. However, these ceramic stones can be safer to use than foot scrapers, especially for diabetics. Consider using a foot shaver. Shavers are often made of stainless steel and are intended for severely thick or dried calluses. They actually shave off layers of skin to get to the softer, newer skin underneath. Know that you can damage your skin if you make a mistake while using the foot shaver, perhaps even leading to infection. You can usually get a foot shaver/razor at any drug store for around $10-$20.
Most foot scrapers have one side that is rougher than the other to help remove corns or thicker calluses. You can also use the rougher side first and follow up with the finer grained side for buffering your skin. Electric foot scrapers or callus removers are similar to over-the-counter microderm-abrasion tools. You can often get professional results with these durable tools. While the electric foot scraper can give you soft feet quickly, easily and efficiently, know that many of them have parts that must be replaced regularly—such as round emery-board discs. Be sure to stock up on these parts. You can also get an easy-to-clean and sterilize glass foot scraper or file for scraping thick skin off your feet. These tools can be boiled or soaked in disinfectant to keep the non-porous surface clean. Be sure to get a glass scraper that is thicker so it won’t break as easily. A clay foot scraper is safe for your skin and not as harsh as some other scrapers can be. It is a tool traditionally used in Asian countries.
Soaking your feet will soften any calluses or thick skin, making it easier to remove with a pumice stone or a foot scraper. [4] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020.
Consider adding mineral or Epsom salt to the water. Epsom salt, especially, can help treat cracked skin and aching feet. You could also add 1–2 US tbsp (15–30 ml) of apple cider vinegar to the bath, if you’d like. [5] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020. You may decide that you want to add some oils to the water to better moisturize your skin. Olive oil, aromatic or essential oils, such as chamomile or lavender, are good choices. Add a teaspoon of these oils to the water and prepare for super soft feet. Also consider adding mineral-rich seaweed, marine algae or menthol to the foot soak.
Use very gentle scrapes—it’s best if you remove the thickened skin gradually over a few sessions to ensure you aren’t too aggressive with your feet. [7] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020. Use the foot scraper where you determined you have rough skin. Avoid tender or very soft areas. Sometimes only a little bit of skin will come off when you use the scraper. This could be because there is not much thickened skin in that area. If you can tell there is still hard skin, however, try the other side of the scraper or use a foot shaver/razor. Use the foot scraper on the other foot by placing the new foot onto the opposite knee.
Pumice stones are rough and can be harsh on sensitive skin. If so, don’t press so hard on the skin. Do it lightly. Repeat on the other foot.
Do not overdo it. You can scrape too much, causing redness and irritation or cuts.
Grasp the foot in both hands. Use both hands to squeeze the foot near the toes. Gradually move up toward the ankle. Use both hands to twist the foot lightly in opposite directions. Start at the toes and work up toward the ankle. Rub your fingers of both hands along the foot in circular motions. Feel for crevices between bones and joints. Press in and rub those areas. You can also use your knuckles along the bottom of the foot. Kneading the skin with your knuckles offers greater pressure and feels great.
