I’m not someone who likes to have their feet groomed regularly; It’s the kind of work I prefer to outsource. But I admit there are plenty of times when my feet—whether they’re tired from a long day of standing, aching after a workout or swollen after traveling—need a little prompt TLC. I’ve always been curious about the power of a foot soak, but have almost no knowledge about its effectiveness.
To learn more, I asked New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Gary Evans, and was surprised to learn that a foot soak can treat a variety of foot issues, including athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, corns, corns, bacterial skin infections and more. . According to Evans, “The benefits of a foot soak really depend on your purpose for the foot soak… With the right mix, a foot soak can treat inflammation, dry skin, foot odor, circulation, and relieve stress.”
Evans recommends soaking your feet for 15 to 20 minutes as necessary, then rinsing them with warm water and moisturizing immediately to enjoy the full effects. Epson salt, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils, he noted, are basic beneficial ingredients you probably already have lying around your house that can be safely incorporated into your foot soak.
He cautioned that people with certain conditions or diseases should avoid foot soaks unless otherwise directed by a doctor. These include people with open cuts or sores on their feet and people with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, heart disease, eczema or psoriasis.
A foot soak could become one of your daily necessities, and luckily, it’s a luxurious way to pamper yourself without breaking the bank. Even better, some of the products below are eligible for Amazon’s Subscribe and Save discount. Keep reading to pick up a few of these must-haves for foot pampering for yourself.
HuffPost may receive share from purchases made via links on this page. Each item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. The experts we consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.
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Dr. Teal’s Pure Epsom Salt Soaking Solution
According to podiatrist Dr. Gary Evans, Epsom salt is a natural mineral known for its many health benefits and can help relieve pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms. It can also help improve blood circulation. Dr. Teal’s Lavender Epsom Salt Solution can help relieve some of your aches and pains.
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HoMedics Bubble Mate foot spa
Sure, you could use a large bucket or bowl handy to soak your feet, but having a luxury foot spa elevates the whole situation and makes it feel like a truly relaxing experience. The HoMedics foot spa comes equipped with massage jets and raised nodes to gently massage, as well as a removable pumice stone that can work on calluses. It has a touch control that allows you to easily turn it on and off without bending over or getting your hands wet.
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Laguna Moon essential oils set
“Evans said that essential oils are a great way to add aromatherapy to your foot soak, “noting that they can help relax your body and mind.” Some of the best essential oils for a foot soak are lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus. This set includes 20 popular essential oils.
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Arm & Hammer pure baking soda
“Baking soda is another natural mineral with many health benefits,” Evans said. “It can help exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and reduce odor. It can also help soothe dry, cracked skin.”
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O’Keeffe’s Healthy Foot Cream
After soaking, you’ll want to apply it thick, literally. This popular cream helps heal and repair even the driest, cracked skin. Restores moisture levels and helps prevent future moisture loss. Find out why it has a whopping 57,605 five-star reviews on Amazon and grab some for yourself for under $10.
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Pure Northwest Tea Tree Oil and Peppermint Epsom Salt Foot Soak
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Foot Soak for Muscle Relief Daily Therapy
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Gold Bond Smoothing Foot Cream
You can’t go wrong with this popular cream from the classic Gold Bond brand. Skin is drenched in silky peptides, vitamins, and shea butter to soften and revitalize even the roughest skin without leaving it greasy.
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Folding foot tub
If storage is an issue, a foldable foot tub will make your life a lot easier than a traditional tub. Available in three colors, it’s easy to clean, transport, and extremely versatile.
