When it comes to looking and feeling your best, taking care of your feet is extremely important.
For starters, the average American takes between 3,000 and 4,000 steps (nearly two miles) every day. That means feet encounter a great deal of wear and tear. Without proper care, feet can become dry, chapped, and even develop unsightly fungal infections.
Additionally, symptoms of diabetes, poor blood circulation, weakened immunity, and other health issues can first appear in your feet. Implementing proper foot care can help in the early detection and management of these health issues.
The problem is, many men believe pedicures are just for women. As a result, men often neglect their feet – and suffer the consequences.
Continue reading to discover how pedicures can provide benefits to both men and women.
What is a Pedicure?
A pedicure is a cosmetic treatment that specifically focuses on the feet and toenails. A traditional pedicure typically includes:
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Soaking feet in warm water
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Scrubbing the bottom of feet
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Clipping, cleaning, and shaping toenails
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Moisturizing skin
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Massaging feet, ankles, and calves
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Nail polish (completely optional)
The first recorded pedicures occurred in Ancient Egypt. Ptahhotep was an Egyptian vizier during the late 25th century BC. Archeologists were amazed to find that his tomb art contained renderings of servants giving him both pedicures and manicures.
Of course, pedicures have evolved since the days of Ptahhotep.
Here are a few of the many types of pedicures offered in modern times:
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Spa pedicures include a traditional pedicure with the addition of mud or seaweed-based skin treatments.
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Shanghai pedicures include soaking your feet in hot water and using a tool to remove dead skin.
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Dry pedicures forego the feet soaking, but still include all the other steps of a traditional pedicure.
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Paraffin pedicures include covering your feet with layers of paraffin wax to help moisturize them.
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Stone pedicures include a foot massage that uses essential oils rubbed in with the help of hot stones.
What are the Benefits of Getting a Pedicure?
Pedicures traditionally end with a layer of clear or colored nail polish. As a result, most men will automatically dismiss the idea of getting a pedicure.
In reality, the nail polish is entirely optional and should not deter men from seeking out this helpful service. Here are a few of the benefits of getting pedicures
Clean, smooth, and moisturized skin
For many men, foot hygiene is limited to the soapy water that runs down their legs as they shower.
This does little to clean feet and virtually nothing to address calluses and rough skin spots that form naturally over time.
A pedicure can help address these issues by giving feet the TLC they need. The pedicurist will cleanse and exfoliate your feet. This will help remove dead skin cells and reduce calluses. The pedicurist will also apply moisturizer to soften and protect your feet.
Increased blood flow
Most pedicures include a thorough massage, a practice with numerous positive side effects. Getting a massage is a highly effective way to reduce tension and promote blood flow.
Increased blood flow can help keep your feet warmer during the winter months.
Additionally, healthy blood circulation is extremely important for your heart health. Nutrients and oxygen travel through your blood and help your cell grow stronger and purge themselves of waste.
Blood circulation is also vital for your erections. In fact, poor blood circulation is one of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction. A pedicure might not eliminate erectile dysfunction, but it can definitely improve your blood flow.
Reduced risks of fungal infections
Nearly 29 million Americans experience fungal infections. The most common types of fungal infections are athlete’s foot and toenail fungus.
Fungal infections are highly contagious. You can pick them up by walking barefoot in showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. Tight shoes and excess moisture in your socks can also increase your risk of fungal nail infections.
Fortunately, regular pedicures can keep feet clean to prevent toenail fungus. They can also help you catch infections early, making them easier to treat.
Lowered stress levels
Many Americans suffer from stress and anxiety.
Fortunately, most pedicures include a thorough foot and calf massage.
Massages have been shown to help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
How Often Should You Get a Pedicure?
Ideally, you should get a pedicure every four to six weeks. That’s enough time to keep your feet generally clean and moisturized between sessions. It will also be a short enough window to prevent your feet from hardening and developing calluses.
How Rex MD Can Help
The belief that pedicures are just for women is outdated. Pedicures have many health benefits, so men should get them too.
Getting regular pedicures can help reduce the signs of wear on your feet while reducing stress and supporting your overall health.
If you are living with a severe fungal infection, the Rex MD team is here to help.
