My feet have been in sandals for weeks and were ready to strip by April. I maintain them by filing and moisturising all winter, but a salon appointment is justifiable, especially if you have been inattentive.

Ask your pedicurist to use an e-file (a fine rotating electrical file) on rough heels, dry and jagged cuticles, and calloused toes. I always do this: the increase in smoothness is significant and can be maintained with DIY filing between appointments.

For these intervals, I use the very effective Boots Hard Skin Remover (£3.59) with regular soap in my weekly bath, and Glowxie’s Glass Foot File (£16.95; I like its palm-sized design, but any will do) for one