Dealing with foot odor every time you take off your shoes can be pretty frustrating. If you’re trying to find a solution to this problem, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn what to avoid if you have smelly feet.
Lack of Proper Foot Hygiene
Lack of hygiene might seem like the most obvious explanation for smelly feet, and for a good reason. It actually is a common cause of the unpleasant odor.
You might shower every day, but simply letting the soap and water run on your feet is not enough. You should thoroughly wash your feet with mild soap and warm water.
In addition, you should change your socks every day. This is especially important if you lead an active lifestyle. Wearing sweaty socks cultivates a perfect breeding ground for fungus. Therefore, try keeping your feet as dry as possible at all times.
Wearing No Socks
While wearing wet socks can trigger unpleasant smells, wearing no socks is a shortcut to smelly feet. If you wear no socks, the insoles of your shoes will soak up your natural sweat. As they typically take up to 48 hours to dry, the fungi on your feet will have a field day, making your shoes noticeably odorous.
Wearing Inadequate Shoes
If your shoes are made from non-breathable materials, wearing them for a long time can cause your feet to smell. Bacteria and fungi readily multiply in such a warm and moist environment. Therefore, avoid wearing closed shoes for a prolonged period. If you can’t, go for lighter, more breathable shoe options.
Consult a Podiatrist
You can often resolve the issue of smelly feet by taking proper care and precautions. However, if the issue persists, it might signify a skin infection. For that reason, it’s best to have a doctor check your feet to ensure nothing more serious is going on.
