Step 1: How to Whiten Yellow Nails at Home
Suffering from yellow toenails? After removing any previous polish, bring back their natural luster with some whitening toothpaste! Apply the toothpaste to toenails and let sit for an hour (a perfect time to catch up with a good book or TV show).
Step 2: Soften Your Soles Naturally
The secret to softer feet is soaking them. For this step in your at-home pedicure, fill a bucket (or large kitchen pot) most of the way with water, and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. Super-charge its softening power by adding 1/4 cup of milk to the footbath. For even more added benefits, add Epsom salts to soothe your feet and relax the muscles.
Step 3: Remove Dead Skin from Your Feet
To remove the dead skin from your feet, all you need is coarse salt or sugar. Mix it with a bit of vegetable or olive oil, making sure it doesn’t dissolve. Then rub vigorously all over your feet (use a pumice stone if you have one). Rinse them one more time and you’re ready for Step 4.
Step 4: Moisturize, Trim, and Massage Your Nails and Cuticles
Trim your toenails straight across with nail clippers, then gently file the edges round to avoid ingrown nails. Moisturize the tops and soles your feet with your favorite hand lotion, massaging deeply in a circular motion to increase circulation and reduce swelling. If you don’t have cuticle cream to use on your cuticles, use mayonnaise instead! It will add moisture and protect you from getting hangnails.
Step 5: Expertly Polish Your Toenails
If you’ve ever wondered what the secret is at professional salons, here it is: Paint your toenails in three strokes. Start near your cuticle and paint a broad stroke down the center of the nail toward the tip. Fill in the right and left sides with similar motions. Wait 2 minutes, then apply another coat. When you’re not using it, make sure to store your polish in the refrigerator to make go on smoother and last longer!