How to Get Summer-Ready Feet Without the Flaky Disasters
Ever looked down at your feet in sandals and thought, "Oh no…"? Dry heels, cracked skin, and peeling toes are the last things you want on show during sandal season.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, a garden party, or just want to feel a bit more confident in your flip-flops, your feet deserve some love. The good news? You don’t need to suffer through flaky disasters or last-minute panic peels to get summer-ready.
Let’s talk about how to prep your feet properly—without any regrets.
The Mistake Most People Make Before Summer
A few years ago, a bride-to-be contacted our Foot Clinic in Birtley in a complete panic. She had used one of those DIY chemical foot peels just days before her wedding. Her feet were covered in dry, peeling skin—and she was supposed to wear open-toe shoes!
We managed to squeeze her in for a treatment and sorted everything just in time. But that moment stuck with us because it's so common: people leave foot care until the last minute and reach for the harshest solution.
Here’s the truth: you don’t need extreme treatments to get beautiful, soft feet. You just need the right care — done the right way.
Step 1: Start With a Simple Soak and Scrub
Think of your feet like your face. You wouldn’t scrub your face with a cheese grater — so don’t do that to your heels!
Soak your feet in warm water for 10–15 minutes once or twice a week.
Use a gentle exfoliating foot scrub or a soft foot file (emphasis on gentle).
Pat dry and don’t forget in between the toes!
Step 2: Hydrate Like You Mean It
Cracked heels and flaky toes love dry skin. To beat them, you’ve got to moisturise — daily if you can.
Look for creams with:
Urea (not as scary as it sounds — it helps soften hard skin)
Shea butter or coconut oil for deep hydration
Tip: Put your cream on at night and wear cotton socks to lock in moisture while you sleep.
Step 3: Don’t Ignore That One Nail or Lump
That one discoloured toenail or the weird bump on your sole? It’s easy to ignore in winter boots, but summer sandals bring it front and centre.
Common issues we see before summer:
Ingrown toenails (don’t wait until they’re painful!)
Verrucas (those stubborn little bumps that just won’t quit)
Thickened or fungal nails (we can help, and yes, it’s more common than you think)
If anything doesn’t look or feel right, pop in to see us. Our Foot Clinic in Birtley offers quick assessments and personalised treatment plans — no judgement, just results.
Step 4: Book a Medical Pedicure (Yes, It’s a Thing!)
A medical pedicure is different from your usual salon visit. We focus on foot health first, aesthetics second — and trust us, the results last longer.
At Birtley Foot Clinic, we:
Clean up rough skin safely
Trim and shape nails properly
Check for any hidden issues
Give you advice on keeping your feet gorgeous all summer long
You walk out feeling refreshed, confident, and maybe even a bit smug.
Bonus: Footwear Check!
Sandals might look cute, but many offer zero support. Make sure yours have:
A cushioned sole
Arch support
Secure straps (floppy flip-flops can lead to pain)
Wearing supportive footwear is one of the best things you can do for happy summer feet.
Final Thoughts: Give Your Feet the Same Love You Give Your Face
You exfoliate, hydrate, and protect your face—why not your feet? They carry you everywhere and deserve a bit of pampering too.
So this year, don’t wait for flaky disasters to strike. Start early, go gentle, and ask for help if anything seems off.
Your summer-ready feet are just a few steps away.
Need a Hand (or Foot)?
If you're not sure where to start or you’ve got a niggling issue you’ve been putting off, we’re here for you.
Pop into our Foot Clinic in Birtley, or book your appointment online. We’ll help you get sandal-ready with confidence.
