fb

MENU

Stop Using These Items to Scrape Foot Skin – Do This Instead

When it comes to removing dead skin or calluses from your feet, it can be tempting to grab whatever tool is handy. But using the wrong thing can do serious damage. 

One of the worst choices is a razor or blade. While shaving thick skin may seem like a quick fix, it’s incredibly risky. Razors can cut too deeply into the skin, leading to bleeding, infection, or permanent damage—especially if you’re doing it yourself without proper training. 

Similarly, avoid cheese grater-style foot files. Though marketed for removing calluses, these aggressive tools can remove too much skin too quickly, often unevenly. This can result in irritation, soreness, and even make the skin grow back thicker as a defense mechanism.

Metal scrapers are another no-go. While they might seem effective, they’re hard to control and can easily damage healthy skin. Plus, if they’re not properly sanitized, they can harbor bacteria that lead to infection. 

Some people even reach for sandpaper or hardware tools from the garage—but these are designed for wood, not skin. Using rough or non-sterile tools can cause abrasions orsplinters and introduce harmful germs.

Instead, choose safer alternatives. Gentle tools like pumice stones, soft foot files, and exfoliating scrubs are much better for your skin. Always soak your feet first to soften the dead skin, then exfoliate gently, and follow up with a moisturizer. Harsh scraping doesn’t equal better results—in fact, it often makes things worse. Healthy skin requires a gentle, consistent routine. 

Your feet carry you through a lot; treat them with care and avoid the temptation to overdo it with tools that were never meant for skin.

The Dirty Truth About Your Old Pillow

Over time, your once-fluffy pillow loses its shape and support, which can negatively impact your sleep and overall health. According to Dr. Rohrscheib, “A flattened or unsupportive pillow can cause your airway to become partially blocked during sleep.” This may lead to more frequent snoring and can even worsen symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition that already disrupts breathing during sleep. If you’ve noticed you’re waking up more tired or snoring louder than usual, your pillow might be the hidden culprit.

Beyond sleep disturbances, your old pillow could also be harming your skin. As it ages, it collects oil, dirt, sweat, dead skin cells, and bacteria—especially if it hasn’t been washed or replaced regularly. Essentially, your pillow becomes a breeding ground for things that don’t belong near your face. No matter how diligent you are with your skincare routine, sleeping on a dirty pillow can undo your hard work, potentially leading to clogged pores, irritation, and persistent breakouts.

So if you’re investing in high-quality skincare but still not seeing the glowing results you expect, it might be time to take a closer look at where you’re laying your head each night. Experts recommend replacing your pillow every 1 to 2 years, and washing your pillowcases weekly, to maintain both better sleep quality and clearer skin. A simple pillow upgrade could go a long way in supporting your health—both inside and out.