Whether we realize it or not, many of our gender-associated behaviors are cultural, rather than biological. Somewhere along the path of modern western culture, having a pedicure slipped into the domain of feminine vanity and bonding rituals, leaving masculine-minded fellows feeling shy and uncomfortable about them. As it’s been said, “times are changing.”
Pedicures aren’t simply about having nice-looking toes. The health benefits of foot grooming are well known to podiatrists. So guys — even the big, burly variety — are warming up to the idea of a relaxing foot soak and some extra special attention to often neglected, yet relentlessly relied upon, appendages.
Now to twist your arm…your hulky, manly arm
Is it worth the time to get a pedicure? If you’re so inclined, it’s perfectly acceptable to type away on your laptop or phone while your feet are tended to, however, contemplative relaxation is one of the benefits of the procedure. Nonetheless, that’s probably not enough to pull most men to the foot-tub, so, without further ado, here are four reasons your feet are healthier after a pedicure.
1. Your feet are dirty, clean ‘em up! Even if you let your feet breathe in barefooted liberation, your feet make more contact with infectious surfaces than any other part of the body. For the sock and shoe wearers among us, the dark, tropical environment of the inner boot is a perfect home for fungi and bacteria. You probably know where this is leading: pedicures clean up feet and toenails, preventing nasty ailments like toenail fungus and athlete’s foot from establishing a noxious occupation on your body.
2. Ingrown toenails aren’t any fun. Believe it or not, there is a right and a wrong way to trim your toenails, and failing to do so can deliver painfully debilitating consequences. Manicurists know the healthiest length, and curvature, keeping you in action, and your big toe ingrown nail free.
3. Your feet will be extra soft. Who cares…? Probably that pretty lady in your life, or that you’d like to be in it. The exfoliation step washes away dead skin cells, for healthy looking, velvety feet so soft, she’ll never forget them!
4. They get the blood flowing. After your heart, the muscles in your feet are some of the most used in the body. Every step you take increases tension in the feet. Foot massages alleviate muscle soreness, at the same time improving circulation.
What to know before you go
As you might imagine, hygienic practices are essential to a good pedicure, so you’re going to want to do a little research before booking an appointment. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask to see how a salon sterilizes their equipment, and while you’re scoping things out, make sure they use tub liners in their foot baths. Other things to avoid are: foot razors, excessively abrasive callous removal, and the famous, but illegal, exfoliating fish in a foot-bath.
It’s also never a bad idea to consult your podiatrist before a pedicure. For more information on healthy toenails, and how to spot a quality nail salon, schedule an appointment with Dr. Nina Coletta today!