The best pedicures are about so much more than getting your toes looking pretty. Whether you’re doing your own or heading to the salon for a medical pedicure, taking the time to give your hardworking feet some dedicated attention is an act of self-care. And as we grow older, it becomes even more imperative to show our feet a bit of love. Especially because, over time, our nails and skin naturally start to change.

“Mature nails can also be a little thinner, drier and more brittle, and the skin and cuticle area can be much more delicate too,” explains celebrity pedicurist Milly Mason. “I’m always extra gentle with more mature clients and will use a gentler file and softer tools to help prevent any irritation, damage or cuts, and I’ll focus much more on hydration and maintaining the health of the natural nail.”