1. Use a foot file to soften hard, leather soles. Be careful not to use one that’s too bumpy or it could tear your skin.

2. File skin when it’s dry because the file will grip better. If you have calluses or cracked skin, don’t file them while they’re wet and soggy. Move the file from the outer edges of the soles toward the center.If you go in the opposite direction, the edges will have a rough border. Try to file at least once a week.

3. Use a moisturizer that absorbs completely, such as Curel Foot Therapy cream, so as not to leave behind a damp layer that could invite infection.

4. If you have thick cracked skin that doesn’t improve after a few days, you could have a fungal infection tha required a medicated cream.

via Allure magazine / [photo, photo]