Smelly Feet – Tips Against Foot Odor

Sometimes it is difficult to get rid of smelly feet. Therefore, it is important to improve hygiene habits and choose the right products against the odor. Discover below some of the best recommendations for solving this common but annoying problem!

Are you looking for a remedy to tackle smelly feet ? If your answer is “yes”, you’ve come to the right place and you are definitely not alone with this problem!

Foot sweat, a disease called bromhidrosis , is a very common problem that is usually caused by bacteria growing on the skin of the feet. Although it is often associated with poor hygiene, it still has many causes.

There are currently a variety of industrially manufactured products that promise to treat smelly feet , but it is necessary to use other grooming practices and habits to reduce or eliminate foot odor.

Below are four important tips that you can use every day against smelly feet.

Why do we suffer from smelly feet?

Before we get into the methods of getting rid of smelly feet, let’s first take a closer look at the possible causes.

First, remember that we have more sweat glands on our feet compared to other parts of the body. These glands give off sweat throughout the day to regulate our temperature and keep our skin moist. However, if our feet sweat excessively, we are likely to suffer from smelly feet.

According to Dr. That from Harvard University, sweat, added to the warmth in closed shoes, creates an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria. Although these organisms live naturally on our feet and help break down sweat, their reproduction can cause unpleasant odors.

Tips to Get Rid of Smelly Feet

Sometimes the use of powders and deodorants is not enough to get rid of smelly feet. Although their formulas have improved noticeably in recent years, they usually only manage to temporarily neutralize the odor.

It is therefore worthwhile to use other measures as well.

1. Wash smelly feet every day

Proper foot hygiene is one of the most important aspects when it comes to combating unpleasant odors. For this reason, it is essential to clean your feet daily with a mild soap and a special foot brush. This can be used to  remove dead cells and dirt.

How can you do it?

• If you have bad smelly feet, wash them twice a day.
• You can do this during your morning shower or soak it in a basin with soap and water.
• After washing them, dry them well, paying particular attention to the skin between the toes, which usually leaves traces of water.

2. Change your socks every day to avoid smelly feet

This is of course a question of hygiene. Changing socks every day prevents the build-up of moisture and bacteria that cause unpleasant odors. On hot days or when you are physically active, it is best to change your socks at least twice a day.

While not all shoes look good with socks, it’s still ideal to wear them whenever possible. They prevent the skin of your feet from coming into direct contact with your shoes, so that no traces of sweat remain in the shoe.

How can you do it?

• Try to choose socks made from natural, breathable fibers while avoiding socks made from synthetic materials.
• If you can’t wear socks, use an antiperspirant on your feet.
• Wash your socks thoroughly before wearing them again.

3. Change your shoes regularly to get rid of smelly feet

To get rid of smelly feet, you should have at least two pairs of shoes.

You may be wondering why. Basically, the point is that every pair of shoes can dry out well from sweat or moisture this way before you use them again.

How can you do it?

• Change your shoes at least every other day.
• When you are not using them, leave them in a cool, ventilated place to make the bad smell go away.
• If you find them very damp, remove the insole, then let it dry in a warm place.

4. Wear open shoes to avoid smelly feet

Ventilating the skin of the foot is key to eliminating the bad odor and moisture that closed-toe shoe use creates. For this reason, experts recommend the use of shoes that facilitate ventilation, such as sandals.

How can you do it?

• Wear open-toe shoes for at least two hours a day so your feet can ventilate.
• If possible, wear open-toe shoes when the weather is warm.
• Be sure to wear these types of shoes when you are in public places such as showers or swimming pools.

Talk to your doctor if the problem persists

If the problem persists and even worsens, you should see  your doctor. He can refer you to a dermatologist or endocrinologist, depending on your problem.

Maybe an infection or even a hormonal imbalance is causing your smelly feet. In this case, you will need a special treatment that you can supplement with the natural remedies mentioned here.

Ultimately, try not to let this affect your self-esteem. There are several treatments available and if you make an effort you can solve the problem.