Smelly feet can indicate an underlying condition, poor foot hygiene, or an injury. But it still makes people uncomfortable. It’s medically known as bromodosis. Sometimes, it makes it difficult to socialise because having a foot odour means being afraid to take off your shoes. Smelly feet can occur because of sweat, fungi, bacteria, or infections.
To reduce foot odour, you can get medical treatment, change your hygiene routine, use different shoes, and try the following home remedies. If they don’t work, you can see a doctor because the odour could be because of a wound or infection. You should visit your doctor if you see any redness, swelling, or red marks.
1. Socks
Wearing shoes without socks can lead to sweat pooling in your shoes. This can lead to smelly feet. Wearing socks absorbs the sweat and prevents any unpleasant smell from arising. Wearing socks also prevents shoes from smelling. Since it’s not practical to wash shoes after every single wear, socks prevent the lining inside the shoe from absorbing the sweat and letting smells fester.
2. Shoe choice
Sometimes the shoes chosen are what lead to foot odour. A shoe that has a lining that doesn’t breathe with accumulating sweat instead of absorbing it and letting it evaporate. When shoes retain moisture, they can easily retain smells. Shoes made with plastic or without any mesh lining also increase how much your feet sweat.
3. Alternate shoes and socks
Let shoes dry out before wearing them again. Try to leave them in fresh air if you already have smelly feet. Wear clean socks each day. This also reduces the risk of infections and skin discomfort. If sweat increases your foot odour problem, you can carry extra socks during the day to change into. This can be especially beneficial if it’s a hot day.
4. Replace insoles
You can remove a shoe’s insole and replace it with antibacterial ones. Some are also odour-resistant. Anti-bacterial sprays can also help. However, you should wait for the shoes to dry out fully before wearing them.
5. Exfoliate
Exfoliating your feet means removing dead skin cells from the soles. You can soak them in cream and then clean off the dead skin cells after. However, most people soak their feet in warm water and then use a pumice stone to scrub them off. When using a pumice stone in a shower, you should use it three times a week to prevent build-up. You should also wash your feet every day and pay extra attention to between the toes. You can use antibacterial soap or body wash for your feet.
6. Soaks
While soaking can be an important part of exfoliation, it can also be part of a routine to help with smelly feet. You can soak your feet for up to 20 minutes in warm water mixed with Epsom salts. For one bowl of water, add half a cup of Epsom salts. Foot Therapy: 5 Ways To Soothe Your Tired Feet After A Long Day
You can also soak your feet in a vinegar bath. The ratio of vinegar to water should be 2:1. You can use apple cider or white vinegar. Soak your feet for up to twenty minutes. Don’t use vinegar soak if you have open wounds, cuts, or bruises. Once you’re done with a soak, ensure you dry your feet thoroughly and moisturise.
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7. Antiperspirant
Some people try using antiperspirant on the soles of their feet or between their toes to prevent sweating and smelly feet. Others also use talcum powder. Ensure your feet are completely dry when wearing antiperspirants. Unless you’re wearing sandals, ensure you wear proper cotton or cotton blend socks that can absorb moisture.
Check out:
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