There is a huge market for foot care products, with one of the most popular being a foot mask. Foot masks are becoming increasingly popular in the beauty world, perhaps due to their ability to exfoliate and moisturize tough foot skin. In addition, they can detox the body, draw out impurities and speed cell turnover.
Besides, let’s be honest; we’ve all experienced dry winter feet in the past, no matter where we live (or who we are). A solution I like to use? Well, foot masks of course! 🙂 Trust me, you can save your dry feet in the winter and make prepping for a mid-winter tropical vacation incredibly easy. 😀 I mean who wouldn’t want smooth, soft feet?
Let’s now discuss what a foot mask is, how it differs from other masks, how to use it and which ones are best.
Quick declaimer: as the owner of the website I have tracked down some of the products and services mentioned. Therefore, when using the links on this page to make a purchase I may get a small commission. Additionally, as an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. Full Disclosure.
Foot mask – general overview
You may be familiar with sheet masks, which come in many varieties depending on your skin concerns. When you combine a sock and a sheet mask, you would get a foot mask. As with regular sheet masks, these single-use products are constructed from a fabric covered with serum, as well as a plastic exterior for keeping your foot and serum contained while you treat your skin.
There is a type of foot mask known as a foot peel that causes the dead skin on your feet to peel off over a few hours or days. Peeling foot masks aren’t for everyone, since they peel the skin, but they do work well to combat dry skin.
Unlike foot peels or clay masks, foot masks don’t claim to exfoliate or peel dead skin. Your feet will come out calloused (even though they are moisturized) if they are calloused when you put them into the mask.
How does a feet mask differ from other masks?
Well even though traditional masks have numerous benefits, such as clearing breakouts and reducing fine lines, the skin on your face is different from the skin on the rest of your body.
Firstly, your foot skin is thicker than that on your face. This part of the body sees a lot of action throughout the day – walking, exercising, and washing. This is why they may need a little more attention. And of course, this is especially true during wintertime.
Winter is known for causing dry skin, probably because of the colder temperatures and lack of humidity in the air. But it is not just your face that gets dry during this period. Because our soles are thicker than anywhere else, they become rough and dry easily.
If you’re an avid runner or walker, you might also develop stubborn calluses, along with hardening of the foot and toes. And if a mask works on your face, why not use the same mask for your feet? 
Foot masks sound gimmicky, we know. We love a peculiar product that we can test, but if there’s one thing we love, it’s a peculiar product. Foot masks can help to treat various skin conditions and reduce redness, battle bad odours, treat cracked heels, pads, and of course hydrate the skin.
What to look for?
Look for a moisturising foot mask that contains:
*Shea butter provides rich moisture to dry skin, preventing damage from the outside.
*Oats/oatmeal is a soothing ingredient which can be used on irritated and uncomfortable skin on the spot to soothe irritation and discomfort from cracked heels.
Essentially, you should seek out moisturizing ingredients that provide benefits to the skin. By moisturizing your skin, you will prevent it from cracking and splitting when you are exposed to harsh air.
Also, before I forget, look for a non-greasy foot mask.
Luckily though, most foot mask products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that are released when applied to the feet and heels.
Nevertheless, a truly effective foot mask provides more than just soothing – it also provides intense hydration.
When & how to use it
Of course, there are no specific rules to it. In general, you can use it whenever you have dry, rough skin on your hands or feet.
You should leave the mask on for at least 10 minutes, or as instructed. Considering there’s no such thing as over-moisturizing, I left each mask on for several hours while doing other tasks. Yes, you are free to move! As a foot mask dries, it is reportedly effective at detoxifying the body, drawing impurities from the skin, increasing circulation and cell turnover, reducing foot odour, exfoliating, smoothing, and moisturizing the foot skin. Although you’ll see excess serum when you take the mask off, it’s best not to reuse it.
Here is a quick guide:
Recommended Foot Masks
Here are some of the most recommended foot masks that you should know about and consider trying if you can 🙂
With great reviews online, the most popular foot masks cost between $3 and $12
BEST AFFORDABLE FOOT MASK Dr Scholl’s Ultra Hydrating Foot Mask
You can opt for an exfoliating mask if you’re looking for a dead skin-dissolving peel. However, this version may be more suitable if you want similar results without the skin flaking off. This Dr Scholl’s mask is formulated with urea, essential oils, and epsom salt to help hydrate skin, keeping it moist for 24 hours. You also receive a pack with three pairs!
BEST FOOT MASK FOR DRY FEET Sephora Cactus/Coconut Foot Mask Sephora Cactus/Coconut Foot Mask
This one from Sephora Collection will not break the bank, and it comes in coconut or cactus scents. With its cactus-infused formula, it hydrates, while coconuts nourish dry feet with fatty acids that soothe. For best results, use twice a week.
BEST FOOT MASK FOR CRACKED FEET – Aveeno Repairing Cica Foot Mask
These hydrating slippers will help you repair any damage your heels and soles may have suffered during the harsh, dry winter. With shea butter and oats, they’re capable of rehabilitating even the most cracked of feet.
BEST OVERNIGHT FOOT MASK – Natracure Gel Moisturising Socks
This washable pair of socks is made with gel linings that release the benefits of botanical oils, aloe vera, and vitamin E into your feet over time. If you’re going to wear these socks overnight, it’s optional to apply a foot cream beforehand. You’re going to be surprised when you wake up!
Taking everything we’ve learned about foot masks and how they can help you get rid of dry skin, we can conclude that foot masks are a helpful self-care technique. Put on the foot masks, secure the sticky tags (this prevents them from slipping off during use) and wait for the prescribed amount of time. While some are quick to wear, others require prolonged wear, making them ideal Netflix companions. 😉 With foot masks, you can treat your feet without leaving your sofa. Take the time to heal your heels while you’re at it. Your foot problems can be solved in the comfort of your own home with the best foot masks!
