beauty

Does the mouthwash foot bath actually work?

Image via iStock.

My feet are most probably the most neglected part of my body. And while I love to get a pedicure, I can’t stand the tools that they use on the base of my feet. Why? Because I’m incredibly ticklish.

Which is why I use an at-home foot treatment that gently removes the dead skin from my feet, is super simple, and I always have the ingredients for it in my cupboard.

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It’s the “Listerine and vinegar foot bath” method, and while many have been talking up lately, it’s something I’ve been doing for years thanks to my mum sharing the recipe with me.

The recipe for it has been floating around on Pinterest boards and beauty blogs lately, and for a good reason, because it works!

What you need.

1/4 cup of antiseptic mouthwash (I have been told that blue mouthwash can stain your feet so possibly avoid that colour)

1/4 cup vinegar

1/2 cup of warm water

Optional: 1/2 cup epsom salts.

I found most of the ingredients in my cupboards. (Image supplied).

What to do.

Tip all of the ingredients into a bucket, and soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes. It's that simple.

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I made double the quantity, because the only tub I own is quite big. After soaking, gently use a pumice stone to scrub the hard areas of the feet.

My delightful feet soaking. (Image supplied.)

Does it work?

While the skin doesn't "wipe off" exactly, after scrubbing them with a pumice stone for a few minutes, they should feel incredibly soft. And, well, the Listerine makes them smell fresh as a daisy. It's got to be said.

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I will let the results speak for themselves.

My toes.

My feet. Scrubbed with the pumice stone after the soak (left) and normal (right).

 

My heels.

My feet scrubbed with the pumice stone (left) and normal (right).

I would definitely recommend this. It's so simple, and the pumice stone is really gentle, that even the most ticklish of feet will be able to handle it. Although if you have sensitive skin, it's probably best to consult your health professional before giving it a go.

Have you tried the Listerine foot bath?