How to Use a Foot File to Smooth Rough Soles

Our feet take a pounding each day—in uncomfortable shoes, over uneven terrain, and under the force of gravity. So it’s no surprise that they often look a little rough. The good news: the right exfoliating tools can give your tootsies a complete makeover. Here’s the best way to calm calluses and tame tough skin for gorgeous feet you’ll be proud to show off.

Soak your feet in clean, warm water for at least five minutes before using a foot file or rasp. The extra moisture will soften skin, help the tool glide over tough areas and prevent nicks.

Calluses and cracked heels aren’t formed in a day—and they probably won’t come off in your first exfoliating session, either. Start small with gentle scrapes to see how your skin reacts and then gradually remove tough spots over a few sessions.

Congrats, your feet are as smooth as a baby’s! Soothe your freshly exposed skin with a moisturizing lotion that’ll prevent tough spots from reforming. If you really want to treat yourself, massage your feet while you’re at it. Of course, beautiful feet are a journey, not a destination. Maintain yours by adding foot file or rasp sessions into your regular beauty routine.