Should You Do a Foot Peel?

Chances are, you dedicate a good amount of time to pampering the skin on your face, but have you stopped to think about other areas of your body that could benefit from a little attention? Just like your complexion can use a face mask, your feet can use a special treatment of their own—aka a foot peel mask. You’ve likely seen foot peels trending all over social media (after all, the results are oddly satisfying), but if not, we’re here to give you the 4-1-1. Read on to learn all about this type of mask, including if you should do one yourself.

WHAT IS A FOOT PEEL MASK?

Before we dive into whether you should do a foot peel, let’s talk a bit about what a foot peel mask is. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How can I make my feet peel and get rid of all that dead skin?”, a foot peel is (not so surprisingly) the answer!

Essentially, a foot peel is a chemical peel that you use on your feet. These masks typically line plastic “socks,” and when you put the socks or booties on, they chemically exfoliate the dead skin cells on your feet while simultaneously hydrating (hence the mask part), which leaves feet smooth and baby soft. They’re particularly great to use during this time of year, right as sandals and flip flops start becoming your everyday staple. After all, your feet will be on full display!

SHOULD YOU DO A FOOT PEEL?

You’re probably wondering: Are foot peels good for your feet? Do peeling foot masks actually work? Yes, and yes! Over time, calluses and dead skin cell build up on your feet, so a foot peel is just what they may need for a little revamp. That said, they certainly shouldn’t be used on a daily basis. Think of foot peels as a special treat for your feet. Depending on the foot peel mask you’re using, you might only need to use one once a month or less for the results you need. So long as you do your research on the best foot peel masks, they’ll leave you with the rejuvenated feet you’re after.

HOW TO USE A FOOT PEEL MASK

By now, you get the gist of what a foot peel is and what it does, so let’s go over how to use one! Of course, you should keep in mind that the steps below are only general guidelines and that the instructions for the foot peel you pick up may be a bit different. If that’s the case, make sure you follow those directions to see results.

STEP #1. REMOVE NAIL POLISH

Use a nail polish remover to remove any traces of your last pedicure.

STEP #2. SOAK YOUR FEET

If you’ve ever tried a foot peel and it didn’t work, it could be because you skipped this step—it’s key. Thoroughly soak your feet so that they’re soft. Let them sit in a large bowl or tub filled with lukewarm water for 10 to 20 minutes.

STEP #3. APPLY YOUR MASK

Slip the foot peel mask over your feet. Make sure they’re secured in place! Usually, the little socks or booties that the mask comes in will have tabs to keep them from slipping off.

STEP #4. WAIT IT OUT

Let your foot peel mask work its magic! With most peels, you can expect to leave them on for around an hour. To really seal in the treatment (and make it easier for you to go about your day), pull a pair of fuzzy socks over the mask.

STEP #5. RINSE YOUR FEET

When time is up, remove the mask and gently wash your feet with soap and water.

STEP #6. APPLY LOTION

Restore hydration—and show your feet some extra love—by smoothing on a lotion.

STEP #7. SOAK DAILY

To activate the peeling process, soak your feet in lukewarm water for 10 to 20 minutes once a day.

STEP #8. WAIT SOME MORE

Your feet won’t start peeling instantaneously after using a foot mask. How long after a foot mask does the skin peel? The peeling can start within a few days, but usually takes a couple of weeks from start to finish.  

STEP #9. LET IT PEEL

As tempting as it may be, let your feet peel on their own. Attempting to peel the skin off yourself isn’t the best idea. To keep peeling skin from getting in the way, be sure to wear socks over the next few weeks!

Next: How to Do a Foot Detox and Help Smelly Feet