Foot Care Tips

What causes foot odour and how do you control it?

The two main culprits of foot odour are sweating of the feet and your shoes. When your sweat mingles with the bacteria in your shoes and socks, it creates an unwanted/unpleasant odour.

To treat sweaty or smelly feet yourself, try to:

• Wash your feet with antibacterial soap once a day (a pharmacist can recommend various products).
• Thoroughly dry the feet after they are wet, especially between the toes.
• Try not to wear the same pair of shoes for two days straight, so they have at least 24 hours to dry.
• Change your socks (preferably wool or cotton, rather than nylon) at least once a day.
• keep toenails short and clean, and remove any hard skin with a foot file (it can become soggy when wet, which offers a perfect home for bacteria)

When to see a doctor

 Smelly feet are a harmless problem that generally clears up. Sometimes, however, this may be an indication of a health problem.

Consult your doctor if the simple steps mentioned above concerning the prevention of foot odour do not help, or if you are worried that your sweating level is unusually high.

What kind of basic footcare do I need?

Just as you wouldn’t go a day without brushing your teeth, you shouldn’t go a day without taking care of your feet.

• Trim your toenails straight across with a nail clipper. Then use an emery board or nail file to smooth the corners, which will prevent the nail from growing into your skin.
• Give them a good wash with warm water, but avoid soaking them as this may dry them out.
• Moisturise them every day with lotion, cream or vaseline. Do not put moisturizing cream between the toes. You want to keep the skin, there dry to prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes. Your shoes shouldn’t hurt your feet.
• Skip the flip-flops and flats. They don’t provide enough arch support.
• Rotate your shoes so you’re not wearing the same pair every day.