So a visit to your local nail salon has been off the cards for a while now and your feet are probably more than ready for some TLC. How do you get professional results at home? The answer may already be lurking in your bathroom cabinet.

1. SOAK

Completely remove all traces of ancient polish using nail polish remover (an unravelled Juuni tampon is a great substitute for a cotton wool ball). Then fill a large bowl / bucket / whatever you have that fits your feet with about 3 litres of warm water, a few drops of lemon juice and 1 cup of mouthwash. Listerine is the big one, but any mouthwash containing methyl salicylate will do. While your feet are soaking (15 mins should do it), ponder the science. Methyl salicylate in mouthwash is an anti-microbial exfoliant that works wonders on dry, peeling and hard skin. It is way more effective than moisturiser and the pumice stone. It is also a natural disinfectant and can protect against infections such as athlete’s foot or other fungal yuckies.

2. SCRUB

Dry your feet and use a scrubbing brush or pumice to remove any dead skin. If you’ve used blue mouthwash it might stain a bit but don’t worry, that’ll come off with soap and water. Your feet will feel super soft and they’ll smell pretty good, too!

3. TRIM & SHAPE

Use a nail trimmer to cut the length straight across. Then use a nail file to round off the corners a little. Apply cuticle oil to the base of your nails. Never cut the cuticles. You know that, right? Apply a yummy scented moisturiser to feet and lower legs.

4. POLISH

Give your toenails a wipe over with nail polish remover to get rid of any moisturiser. Apply base coat, then colour, then a topcoat for shine. If you’re in a hurry, you can put your feet in cold water to hurry up the hardening process. Otherwise slip on some thongs to walk around in until the polish is dry. Twinkle Toes, you’re all set.