Aging Backwards Tuesday Tips #49: Foot Fetish

When you think of cosmetic surgery, feet aren't usually the first things to come to mind, but more and more people are opting for surgery to make their feet prettier.

"Foot Makeover" and "Toe Tuck" are just two of the terms that have come into vogue in recent years. Cosmetic foot surgery is defined as surgery "done to manipulate or change a foot that has no underlying injury." Some women want to shorten their toes or have their feet made narrower, while others ask for collagen or silicon injections in the pads of their feet to make it more comfortable to wear high heels.

According to WebMD, the majority of foot and ankle surgeons surveyed (82 percent) thought cosmetic foot surgery was inappropriate. The American Academy of Foot and Ankle Surgeons warns that cosmetic foot surgery should "not be considered in any circumstances."

Here are some tips to make your feet prettier without surgery.

Put Your Best Foot Forward

1) Pedicure. Even if you don't have it in your budget, you can give yourself a home pedicure or at least polish your toenails so they'll look more "finished." Be sure to keep your toenails trimmed and filed.

2) Exfoliate. Our feet can take quite a beating from walking around barefoot or even in ill-fitting shoes. Sandals expose your feet to dirt and grime that can embed itself into your heels. To make your own exfoliant, mix Epsom Salt with coconut oil or olive oil to make a paste. Rub the paste into your heels and calluses then wash off and dry thoroughly. I recommend doing this in the bathtub, sitting down, so you don't slip. It can be messy, too, so doing it in the bath make for easier clean-up.

3) Try paraffin. A paraffin wax treatment makes your feet ultra-soft feeling, plus it relaxes you so you're combining stress relief with your foot beauty treatment. Many spas offer paraffin wax treatments or you can purchase your own system at some of the big chain stores.

4) Get the right fit. Too many people choose shoes that are ill-fitting and this can cause calluses, hammer toes, bunions, fallen arches and other foot problems. If you're not sure of your size, most shoe stores or shoe departments have measuring devices that can help you pick the right size (length and width) for you and it's usually free.

5) Foot and ankle exercises. Exercise has so many health benefits and it can even benefit your feet. Just as muscle tone makes our bodies look better, it can also improve the look of our feet, ankles and calves. Click HERE to see some exercises that may help you on your quest for prettier feet.

There are many ways to have more attractive feet without resorting to unnecessary surgery.