When it comes to pampering, your feet tend to get a rough deal (no pun intended). Despite the fact that they literally carry you through your day-to-day life — from work to the gym to nights out with friends — adding an extra step to your nightly beauty routine, solely for your feet, probably isn't going to happen. But that's where the best foot scrubs come in.
Many foot scrubs pair exfoliating ingredients with moisturizers and essential oils for multiple benefits. To combat cracked heels and smooth out callouses over time, focus on finding your ideal exfoliator. Gritty exfoliators like apricot seeds and walnuts can be more effective at sloughing off dead skin, but for more sensitive skin types, they might be too aggressive. For a milder option, look for a scrub that uses pumice or sugar as its main exfoliator, and never rub aggressively at your skin — work the scrub onto your feet in gentle, circular motions.
Other popular ingredients in foot scrubs include tea tree oil and peppermint oil, which help to eliminate foot odor. Tea tree oil can also help relieve itchy skin because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, while peppermint oil soothes tired, achy feet.
While most foot scrubs already include a moisturizer like coconut oil or cupuaçu butter, if your feet are in need of extra hydration, pair a softening lotion for feet with socks at night before you go to bed. Socks help to create heat that allows the cream to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
To find your perfect match, check out four of the best foot scrubs, below, that will reinvigorate your feet and leave them super smooth when used just two to three times a week.