How can I stop my feet from Smelling?

Sometimes we get smelly feet.  It could be the shoes we are wearing (see my previous blog on how to deal with Smelly Shoes) or it could be that our feet are the problem.  Some of the tips that I gave on how to deal with smelly shoes will apply here, but it is always good to think about your Foot Health from all angles.  

Smelly feet - the medical name is bromodosis - can affect anyone. It can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. The main cause is sweaty feet and there are simple steps you can take to help prevent this.

What causes sweaty and smelly feet?

The main causes of sweaty and smelly feet are:

• Wearing the same shoes every day. Feet become smelly if sweat soaks into the shoes and you wear them again before they are dry.
• Poor personal hygiene.
• Hormonal changes can cause feet to sweat more, so teenagers and pregnant women are especially prone.
• If you are stressed.
• A condition called hyperhidrosis, which causes you to sweat more than usual.

Preventing smelly feet

• Use a spray deodorant or antiperspirant on your feet. A normal underarm one will work just as well as a specialist foot product.
• When you have dried your feet with a towel after a shower or bath, dab between your toes with cotton wool dipped in surgical spirit.
• Put detachable medicated insoles in your shoes. These have a deodorising effect.
• Try foot-fresh socks. These are impregnated with chemicals to discourage the bacteria that break down the sweat and cause a smell. Some sports socks have ventilating panels to help keep feet dry.
• Wear leather or canvas shoes. In the summer, wear open-toed sandals. Go barefoot at home if you can safely.

Sweaty feet can be treated with an antibacterial foot scrub, but avoid using these scrubs if you have broken skin or eczema.

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