winter feet

It's winter and my skin is exceptionally dry, especially my heels.

A couple of years ago, I thought I'd found a remedy. I did an online search and ended up buying a cream with one of the worst names in branding history: 

Honestly, you'd think the marketing department over at Zim's could have come up with something better. Anyway. I did buy it, did use it, and did see no results.

Then, more recently, I come across another product — this one, an electronic foot file with a nice french-sounding name, and no mention of crack. The gushing reviews make the purchase impossible to resist.

I happen to be speaking to M when I say, "Hey, are your heels dry and calloused?"  This of course comes after after our analysis of weighty world issues.

M gets all animated and says, "Yes.  OMG.  I just bought the most amazing product.  I'm addicted to it."  I ask if it's the Amope.  She is still in bed, reaches over to her night table, and says, "Yes!!!! It's the best thing.  I use it everyday.  I was even told by a woman who works at a high-end Boston salon doing pedicures that I should seek medical attention for my rough, cracked heels. I bought this instead.  It's a miracle machine."  

So I try it.  And man, this thing really works.  It buzzes along, and kicks up (what looks like smoke) but is actually dead skin.  After a week, I see a significant improvement.  I'll spare you the picture.

Today I have an appointment at a podiatrist. I pick this guy for three reasons:  he takes my insurance; his reviews on ZocDoc are great; he's only a few blocks away; and he has a friendly face.  His name is Alan Rosen and I picked superbly. 


I bring my my new Amope with me as M wants me to show him the product and ask him a question.  So I do.

Me: Can you overuse this thing?
Dr. Rosen: Of course you can.
Me:  How will you know?
Dr. Rosen: You'll know when your skin becomes raw and starts to bleed.

With my new podiatrist and new Amope, I my feet are at last in good hands.