How to use foot files and pedicure guides
Foot files, foot sticks, and pedicure pats are all tools used to soften calluses and dry, hard skin on the heels or soles of the feet.
Types of foot file
They come in all shapes and sizes but most commonly come with a coarse (80 grit) and a medium (120 grit) work surface. Pedicure beams have a metallic “grater” type surface and are generally rougher than sandpaper types.
The sand paper type is the preferred choice for podiatrists and podiatrists over traditional pumice stone because it is easier to use.
Most podiatrists do not like patients using a “scraper” type pedicure rasp as they can be very abrasive and can leave the skin red and raw. If you use one, be sure to soak the feet long enough to make the hardness soft enough.
You need to be especially careful if you have circulatory problems or diabetes, and please never use blade type scrapers on yourself, at the risk of getting a nasty cut or something much worse.
What is the best foot file?
The best foot files on the market are wooden or plastic pedicure sticks as mentioned above, they have a sandpaper-like surface which is great on young nails and dry skin and leaves a superior finish after applying a good quality foot cream.
It is probably best to get a professional grade pedicure wand with a large handle and large work surface for ease of use. One with interchangeable head replacements will save you money and the need to ditch the toe stick when its surface becomes less effective.
The only problem with most files and sticks is that they may not be fine enough to remove tough, hard skin the same way a podiatrist would.
The chiropractor/podiatrist should be expert at using a scalpel to remove calluses because most foot files are not up to the job, for example, if the heel is very hard and cracked.
Sand paper-type foot files seem to be the most gentle on your skin and are best used when feet are completely dry. This is when they come on their own and you can see clouds of skin dust coming from the area.
Clean your file
It’s also a good idea to consider how to clean your foot file. Chiropractors and podiatrists will use an ultrasonic cleaner to remove particles from the surface of files before sanitizing, but this will kill most users unless they visit a salon.
Running it under the faucet with some soap and a nail brush should suffice. However, if you don’t mind putting it in with the dishes, you should be able to put it in the dishwasher if it’s made of a suitable material.
