Best Foot Scrub To Remove Dead Skin

The sun is shining, and you can feel the heat lingering on the back of your neck – spring has come around again, and it feels unusually warm.

Despite having spent a few winter months wrapped up, you are ready to embrace removing the layers.

As your friends remove their shoes and socks, you start to remove yours when a flash of panic is seen across your face – you have just remembered that your feet are in no condition to be seen by anyone.

Whilst this is most definitely not the end of the world, even though it might feel like it, having healthy and soft feet can really up your confidence levels.

Because of this, using a foot scrub, no matter the season, can be a great way to make sure your feet look great in all weather conditions.

Fortunately for you, we have put together a simple and easy guide to show you the best foot scrubs available.

Whether you want something quick to apply, or a product to add to your skincare routine that feels a little more luxurious, then you will find it below. 

PhysAssist Foot Scrub

Even though a foot scrub is used to help remove dry and dead skin, it can also have other properties. Because we are a huge fan of essential oils, we could not resist the PhysAssist foot scrub. 

The scrub includes peppermint oil which is a great addition because it gently gives a cooling sensation to the skin.

This was fantastic to use at the end of the day after hours at work. It provided relief to feet that had been walking around an office most of the day.

The use of tea tree oil is beneficial when it comes to soothing the skin, as well as it being naturally antibacterial.

It was most certainly welcomed, especially when teamed up with tingling peppermint. When massaged into the skin you can smell the beautiful aroma of peppermint and tea tree oil.

The scrub itself felt extra gentle, but it certainly did its job. Having said that, if you are after something that feels more grainy, then this is not it. 

It is best for those who do a lot of standing and walking, and feel like they need extra TLC, but it can be enjoyed by anybody who wants a relaxing foot scrub that does more than just remove dead skin. 

The bottle itself has 8oz worth of product which is bound to last you a while if it is only used on the feet a couple of times a week, or when you need it most. 

Pros

  • Tingling peppermint helps calm and relieve the feet of aches and pains
  • Tea tree oil – naturally antibacterial and works great with peppermint
  • 8oz enough product to last a few weeks

Cons

  • Gentle scrub while it is a positive, it might not feel very ‘scrubby’ to some

This item is also available to buy at PhysAssist and UBuy

Majestic Pure Lavender Body Scrub

Whilst technically a body scrub, we wanted to include the Majestic Pure Lavender scrub due to it working so well to remove dead and dry skin.

Also, it is a fantastic one to use before bed due to it including relaxing lavender oil.

At 10oz, there is plenty of scrub to last you a number of weeks, though if you plan to use it on the whole body, you may need to repurchase some sooner – it is that good.

It smells absolutely divine, and leaves the feet feeling smooth and relaxed, ready for some moisturizer to finish off the self-care routine.

The ingredients also include sea salt which is the scrub particles included to remove the dead skin cells.

Again, just like with the PhysAssist, it does not feel majorly ‘scratchy’, and closer to a sugar scrub. However, it does the job well and leaves the skin feeling extra smooth and healthy.

Also, do keep in mind that if you have a cut on your skin it will sting due to the salt content – and yes, it hurts!

The shea butter and grapefruit oil add extra benefits to the skin, making sure it is bright and moisturized. However, due to the high levels of essential oils, you will need to mix the product once you open it because it splits. 

The brand prides itself on being made in the USA, as well as being cruelty free. 

Pros

  • Essential oils – it includes lavender to relax and grapefruit oil to brighten skin
  • Cruelty-free no animals were harmed in the making of the product
  • 10oz plenty of product to last you a number of weeks

Cons

  • Salt it may sting if you have an open cut

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Foot Magic Scrub

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Foot Magic Scrub, 2.1 Ounce

If you are looking for an inexpensive option that smells delicious, then the Palmer’s Cocoa Foot Magic scrub is the one to go-for. Not only does it smell amazing and will make you super hungry for chocolate, but it is also great to use.

Whilst the usual Palmer’s Cocoa products smell highly of chocolate, this one has an added scent due to the peppermint oil.

Just like with the PhysAssist, this one provided a slight tingle on the skin, but not as much – however, some people might prefer that.

The cocoa butter naturally moisturizes the skin, whilst the natural exfoliants such as pumice help to remove dry and dead cells, and of course, the peppermint helps to soothe tired and exhausted feet.

The brand itself promises to support the sustainable production of their raw materials such as cocoa butter, Shea and coconut oil.

If this is something that is important to you, then it is great to know that the brand is aware of it too. 

The 2.1oz is smaller than the other products listed here, and with its squeezy tube it can be difficult to manage how much of the product comes out at a time.

A jar would have been better, so you can only use what you need, however, if you just do not squeeze too hard, you should be fine.

Pros

  • Smells amazing – chocolate and mint are the top notes
  • Natural exfoliants pumice gives it a great scrub feeling without being too harsh
  • Peppermint oil tingles and soothes feet that are super tired
  • Highly moisturizing includes shea butter and cocoa butter for extra moisture

Cons

  • Smaller packaging at 2.1oz there is not a lot to use, but a little does go a long way

Okay Himalayan Pink Salt Foot Scrub

OKAY Himalayan Pink Salt with Seaweed Foot Scrub, 6 Ounce

Not only does the pink mixture look pleasing on the eye as you massage it around the foot, it also feels really good too. The salt itself works a treat on dry feet that needs some extra TLC. 

Just like we mentioned with the Majestic Pure Lavender scrub, the use of salt may not be a good idea to use on any fresh cuts – it will sting.

Apart from that, the salt provides the skin with enough exfoliation without feeling like it is ripping the skin from the bones – sorry for that imagery!

However, like with most scrubs, some people may not find the salt is ‘scrubby’ enough. For the majority though, it will suit the skin without scratching it. 

Seaweed is also included in the ingredients list. It provides the skin with extra nourishment with its high amount of vitamins. It may also act as an anti-aging ingredient, whilst creating a natural glow to the skin.

At 6oz it has enough product to last a few weeks, and it does have a slight lavender scent to it which is rather relaxing before bed. 

Pros

  • Includes seaweed great for anti-aging, extra vitamins and to make the skin glow
  • 6oz has a decent amount of product that will last a few weeks
  • Gentle the salt provides a gentle yet effective exfoliation

Cons

  • Might not be ‘scrubby’ enough for some people though the majority will find it suitable to use without thinking they are about to lose their skin

This item is also available to buy at Sally Beauty and Okay Pure Naturals

FEETS Exfoliating Foot Scrub

A cult favorite, the FEETS foot scrub has been championed by the likes of BuzzFeed and Urban Outfitters. Want to know why it is so good? Let us explain.

The cruelty-free foot scrub has been formulated using some great ingredients that are known to work well with the skin.

Especially the feet which are used day in and day out to keep us going – oh, and to wear in those new shoes. Ouch.

The list of ingredients includes lemon to inject a dose of vitamin C, as well as repair damage on a skin cell level and to promote the rebuilding of the skin via synthesis of collagen. 

Chamomile is also included in the product for its calming properties. Due to it being anti-inflammatory, it may help to soothe and relax the mind and skin.

Lastly, volcanic pumice stone, along with lava stone and some water mixers provide a gentle yet effective scrub. The scrub also lathers up due to this unique combination of ingredients.

It felt great to use, and we loved the lather effect it had on the skin. This made it an enjoyable experience, plus it also left us with super smooth feet.

However, whilst it is gentle, it may be a little too strong for some people’s skin. 

Pros

  • Unique formula the scrubbing particles include volcanic pumice stone, lava stone and water mixers to create a lather
  • Lemon – does wonders for the skin, such as provides vitamin C and repairs 
  • Chamomile is anti-inflammatory and calming
  • Highly-rated – by the likes of BuzzFeed and Urban Outfitters

Cons

  • May be too strong the scrubbing was a little harsh, but still somehow felt gentle

Buyer’s Guide

Whilst buying a foot scrub might seem simple enough, each one can provide different benefits. Before you invest, take a look at this buyer’s guide to find out what the key areas are when purchasing a foot scrub to make sure it does a great job. 

Scrubbing Ingredients

Whilst there are plenty of foot scrubs on the market, the most important thing to note is what they use as the ‘scrubber’.

Whilst some use walnut, another might use pumice stone or salt. They all actually do the same job, but some are more gentle than others.

If you are looking for a stronger scrub, then you may want to find something that includes smaller and scratchy particles.

Whilst if you want a gentle scrub, then it is worth finding a scrub that provides bigger and rounded particles.

Pumice is a good choice as an in-between, though this can vary depending on the size. No matter which one you choose, they are all safe to use on sensitive skin that surrounds the foot.

Essential Oils

Even though essential oils are not necessary to a good foot scrub, they can provide extra benefits. For example, if you have tired feet and would like a scrub that can target the problem of aches and pain, peppermint oil is a good choice.

It will tingle too and give a refreshing feeling, so may even be a great option during the warmer months. 

Tea tree oil is great too as it provides antibacterial properties as well as a way to calm down skin, whilst lavender oil can help you to sleep so is best used before bed to promote a good night’s snooze.

Packaging

A lot of foot scrubs come in tubs and jars. This makes it easier, so you can scoop out the amount of product you want, rather than waste it.

Whilst you might think this is unhealthy, bacteria from your hand will not breed within the product due to ingredients that should have been added to stop this happening.

However, this is not always the case, especially with more natural ingredients.

You can also get foot scrubs in a tube which allows you to squeeze the product out, rather than touch it. This can cause an issue with dispensing too much product, however. 

Scent

A product does not need a scent to make it work, but also the scent does not need to be avoided altogether either.

The ones listed above get their scents from essential oils and natural ingredients, rather than artificial smells.

If you do not want a scent, then they are out there, however, a scented product can add to the experience, for example the lavender. It is there to help you become calm, as well as have a great sleep. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Benefits Of A Foot Scrub?

There are many reasons to exfoliate the feet with a scrub. The main reason is to get rid of the buildup of dead skin. A scrub can easily remove this without damaging the healthy skin underneath.

Also, doing this can help to avoid foot issues like calluses, and generally keep them in good shape through summer and winter seasons. 

What Are Foot Scrubs Used For?

If used weekly, a foot scrub can help to stop your heels from cracking, as well as remove dead and dry skin, and boost blood circulation due to the massaging effects. It will make your feet super smooth and healthy!

How Many Times Should I Use A Foot Scrub?

It all depends on how your feet are. If they are dry and in need of attention, then a couple of times to three times a week is fine. If they are generally healthy, then once a week will be best.

Can I Use A Foot Scrub Every Day?

There is nothing wrong with using a foot scrub every day, especially if the particles are softer. If you find that the scrub particles are harsher, then use it every other day, or once a week if you do not want to take the time out to scrub each day.

Is There A Time Limit To How Long You Should Leave A Foot Scrub On?

There is no set time limit when it comes to how long you should leave a foot scrub on the skin. You can apply, massage it into the skin and then rinse, or you can apply it to the skin, massage, and let it sit for around 20 or 30 minutes before rinsing it all off. 

Is A Foot Scrub Meant To Be Used On Dry Or Wet Skin?

You can use a foot scrub on either dry or wet skin, but that can also depend on whether you have sensitive skin or not. You might find that using a scrub on the delicate areas of the feet may feel sore if the skin is dry.

One of the best ways to use a foot scrub is by soaking the feet in warm water for around 10 minutes – this is good to do in the bath. Then, once the skin is ready, you can use a scrub to easily remove dry skin. 

Using a scrub on softened skin avoids slight cuts that a scrub may cause.

Hannah Shiftle
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