Stop the Stink: Foot Odor Causes and Prevention
Sep 11, 2017
Our feet have more sweat glands than anywhere else on our bodies, 250,000 glands per foot to be exact. When our feet sweat, the moisture attracts bacteria. Once the bacteria start to break down the sweat, a foul smell is released. To prevent our feet from consistently smelling bad, there are certain steps we can take to reduce the sweat on our skin.
If you constantly have to worry about removing your shoes in front of other people for fear that they’ll smell up the room, here are some actions you can take to avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself:
1. Always wear socks with your shoes. Socks provide an extra layer between your sweaty feet and your shoes so that less sweat will soak into the shoe and remain there.
2. Avoid socks made of nylon or polyester. These materials trap sweat and make it harder for your feet to breathe. Instead, you should try to wear cotton or wool socks.
3. Don’t wear the same pair of socks longer than one day.
4. Have more than one go-to pair of your favorite shoes so you don’t repeatedly add sweat to the same shoe.
5. If you have been wearing shoes excessively, if possible, put your shoes in the washer.
6. If given the choice, always pick open-toe shoes versus close-toe shoes.
7. Use antibacterial foot scrub, or put antiperspirant or foot powder on your feet.
8. Make sure to dry your feet after you shower. Don’t forget to dry in between your toes too because this is where fungus is most likely to grow.
9. Sometimes excessive sweating is your body’s way of getting rid of toxins. Eating less saturated fats could help reduce these toxins.
Taking action to combat sweaty feet is important because if left unchecked, they could lead to other foot problems such as foot fungus or Athlete’s Foot. If you are still concerned about your sweaty feet after trying these tips or need recommendations for foot powder and spray (some antiperspirants need a prescription), contact the Dallas foot experts at Metroplex Foot and Ankle.