Have you ever noticed that your feet stink and there is nothing you can do about this situation? If yes, then you probably want to get rid of the unpleasant foot smell. In most cases, a foot hygiene routine can be extremely helpful. However, there are certain conditions (like hyperhidrosis and fungal infection) that may require a more serious approach. In this article, we have gathered seven effective tips on how to make your feet less smelly.
1. Wash your feet thoroughly
There are a lot of factors that can make your foot smelly. But poor foot hygiene is deemed the most common one. If you don’t wash your feet, sweat and dirt promote bacteria and fungi overgrowth that causes an unpleasant smell. That’s why it is extremely important to wash your feet with antibacterial soap and dry them thoroughly. It is also beneficial to remove the dead skin with a pumice stone since it is a perfect shelter for bacteria.
2. Change socks regularly
If you suffer from hyperhidrosis or have noticed that your socks are wet, you need to change them as soon as possible. The point is that bacteria and fungi (that cause the bad smell of your feet) start to multiply actively in a humid environment. Try to have a spare pair or two of socks on hand especially if you exercise, wear closed shoes, or have to spend a lot of time in the warmth.
3. Wear loose shoes
Tight shoes can also lead to an unpleasant smell of your feet. The point is that shoes that fit snugly to the skin can lead to increased perspiration. Additionally, tight shoes can rub your skin that can result in blisters, corns, and calluses. That’s why it is better to wear loose shoes that don’t squeeze your feet and don’t interfere with ventilation.
4. Choose socks and shoes made of natural materials
To reduce perspiration and unpleasant foot smell it is essential to choose shoes and socks made of natural materials. Both socks and shoes shouldn’t interfere with proper ventilation. Otherwise, they can create a “greenhouse effect” that will promote the overgrowth of fungi and bacteria on your skin. Natural materials let the air into your shoes and absorb excess moisture that prevents the development of an unpleasant foot smell.
5. Make a foot bath
A foot bath is a greater option not only to relax your tense foot muscles and make your feet look pretty. There are certain ways to make a foot bath that can help you reduce perspiration and reduce the number of bacteria and fungi on your feet. For example, a foot bath with apple cider vinegar can help remove bacteria that cause an unpleasant smell. Mix one part of vinegar with two parts of water and soak your feet. You can also make a foot bath with sea salt and tea tree oil that also reduces the number of bacteria.
6. Apply antiperspirant to your feet
If you want to reduce perspiration on your feet, you can use a strong antiperspirant. There are special antiperspirants for feet or you can also use an antiperspirant high in aluminum chloride to reduce sweating. Apply an antiperspirant on clean dry feet. It is recommended to apply it overnight and reapply antiperspirant in the morning if needed. Be sure to apply it between your toes.
7. Treat all the foot issues
It is important to understand that unpleasant foot smell can also be caused by a fungal infection that is more difficult to eliminate. If your feet are smelly, red, swollen, itchy, covered by blisters or ulcers, it can be a sign of an athlete’s foot. Make an appointment with a foot doctor for a thorough diagnosis and timely treatment. Otherwise, fungi can spread to your toenails, arms, and even groin.
The bottom line
If you have sweaty and smelly feet, you should understand that proper hygiene is essential. You need to wash and dry your feet properly. Additionally, you can use home remedies like antiperspirants and foot baths to reduce perspiration and remove bacteria that make you feel stink.
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