Having feet that smell bad can be an embarrassing issue. You might be looking for a solution to the problem, but don’t know where to go.
You’re in luck! Read this article to find out how to get rid of smelly feet!
Bromodosis: Foot Odor
Bromodosis is a common condition that causes foot odor, also known as stinky feet. The main cause of this unpleasant smell is the trapped sweat in socks and shoes.
Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating of body parts. Feet have thousands of sweat glands, so a person with hyperhidrosis has a much higher chance of having smelly feet.
Bacteria
Bacteria like to live in warm places. There are many kinds of bacteria that live on your feet. They break down oils and dead skin cells. When mixed with the moisture from sweaty feet, a bad odor can be the result.
Fungal Infections
Fungus grows and thrives in warm, moist areas. When your feet sweat inside your shoes and socks, this creates an environment where fungi can develop. These fungi are commonly known as athlete’s foot.
Who Can Get Smelly Feet?
People with naturally excessive sweating or sweatier feet may be more prone to developing bromodosis.
Teenagers and pregnant women are more prone to having smelly feet, because their bodies tend to produce hormones that cause them to sweat more.
People under stress can also tend to produce a lot of sweat, which can make their feet smell.
There are also certain medical conditions that can cause your feet to smell, including but not limited to diabetes, thyroid diseases, and hormonal fluctuations.
Steps to Stop Your Feet from Stinking
If left untreated, smelly feet may cause embarrassment and discomfort in social situations. Here are some home remedies to help reduce foot odor.
Foot Care
Wash your feet every day. Grab a bar of soap and get to work, making sure to scrub the spaces between your toes.
Soak your feet for a deep clean. Fill a basin with warm water and add either a bit of apple cider vinegar or half a cup of Epsom salt. Let the feet soak for 20 minutes once a week.
Clip and clean your toenails regularly. Use a foot file to remove any dead skin from your feet.
Make sure to dry your feet well. Use a towel and wipe them on the carpet after a wash.
When at home, let your feet air by staying barefoot. This helps keep your feet dry.
Try antimicrobial essential oils. Just a few drops mixed with water and a gentle rub on your feet can make a big difference. Always do a patch test first.
Wear Socks And Shoes Correctly
Change your socks daily. If you sweat excessively, are exercising, or are in a hot environment, you can change them more than once a day.
Wear socks with moisture-wicking fibers. They pull the sweat away from the skin on your feet. Socks made of natural fibers (such as wool or cotton) are a good option.
Avoid tight shoes and those that retain moisture. Wear shoes made of natural materials, like leather.
Don’t wear the same shoes all the time. If you wear the same pair day in and day out, they can get worn out and stinky. Alternate between different pairs to keep them fresh and ready to go.
Use a disinfectant to kill the bacteria. A quick spray inside your shoes and on the insoles can work wonders. Let them dry in a sunny spot to remove any moisture.
Consult a Healthcare Provider
If home remedies do not work, it is best to see a doctor. They can help ascertain and identify the underlying causes behind the odor.
They may provide an over-the-counter antiperspirant or medicated foot powders. These medical treatments can help manage foot odor and improve overall foot and ankle health.
Final Thoughts on Stinky Feet
Smelly feet can be caused by a number of factors. Hyperhidrosis, bacteria, and fungal infections can all cause your feet to smell.
Things like not changing your socks, wearing tight shoes all day, or having a job where your feet get really hot can cause your feet to get sweaty, and make the smell worse.
It is important to take care of foot hygiene. Wash your feet thoroughly. Avoid tight shoes and socks. Allow your feet to dry.
