Pedicure Tools Review: Does the Ped Egg Work?

Monday, July 20th, 2009

The ped egg is one of the more interesting pedicure tools. Perhaps you’ve seen the infomercial or the SNL Cougar skit where the ladies take a ‘ped egg’ break and call over their cabana boy to clean up the shavings. The ped egg does look tempting. The television models smile with delight as they use it and then show off beautiful, smooth feet.

But does it really work?

Short answer: Yes, with some exceptions.

Is it safe?

Short answer: Again, yes, but with some exceptions.

What is the ped egg? The ped egg is one of many pedicure tools, but what makes it unique is that it is a ‘grater’ for calluses. It literally shaves the tough, dry skin off with a series of cheese grater like blades and captures the dead skin as it falls.

The biggest problem with the ped egg is that it doesn’t catch 100% of the dead skin. However, this can be compensated for by placing a towel underneath your feet or using the Ped Egg outside.

The other biggest complaint with the Ped Egg is that it is a telemarketed product and buying products ‘as advertised on television’ opens consumers up to less than ideal business practices. Several consumers report being overcharged for extra blades that could be found cheaper at Target or Walgreens. Dissatisfied consumers who returned the Ped Egg reported being shortchanged on their refund.  The work around for this complaint is to buy the Ped Egg from Amazon.com or at retail outlets such as Target or Walgreens. Price ranges from $10 up to $20 depending on the retailer and whether or not extra ped egg blades and accessories are included.

In addition, the ped egg is an intense product that literally scrapes and cuts dead skin.  It may not be suitable for all feet and should be used with caution. Infection could result if there are open wounds on the foot or if the ped egg isn’t properly cleaned between uses.

Many professional manicurists/pedicurists and even podiatrists do not like the Ped Egg saying it can actually result in even worse calluses. However, most Ped Egg users are satisfied with the results achieved. Even so, the Ped Egg alone won’t result in beautiful tootsies. Beautiful feet are the result of  a regular, consistent regimen of exfoliation and use of hydrating foot creams.

The ped egg is not recommended for diabetics and should not be used over cracked skin (first heal the skin with a good cream, then use the ped egg).  Some users reported their feet were sore and tender after using the ped egg. Either they were too aggressive in using it, or their skin was sensitive.

When first using the ped egg, use light pressure and see how well your feet tolerate the treatment. For best results, it might be a good idea to use the Ped Egg lightly and then follow up with a high quality foot file. Be sure to finish with a good, hydrating foot cream. Most importantly, calluses don’t just appear overnight, they take time to develop and it will time to get rid of them too. This requires consistency. With dedicated effort, you’ll have smooth beautiful feet to rival that of any Ped Egg model on television

Tags: callus removal, calluses, foot cream, moisturize feet, ped egg, pedicure product reviews, pedicure tools
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