The summer season is upon us which means warmer evenings, pool days, and, unfortunately for some, smelly feet. Stinky summer feet are primarily caused by excessive sweat, but podiatrist Alex Kor has some tips for keeping your feet fresh all season long.
Wearing socks and breathable shoes are the biggest factors for preventing foot odors. Athletic shoes with mesh tops or washable canvas shoes are ideal, but here are some other useful strategies.
- Take off sweaty socks: Take off socks as soon as you get home to minimize the amount of moisture surrounding your foot. Change socks after exercising or lots of walking around.
- Dry those shoes: Don’t just throw your shoes in a drawer or shelf when you take them off. Leave them in a sunny, well-ventilated area to air out so they’re dry and ready for the next time you want to wear them.
- Use deodorant for your feet: That’s right, it’s not just for armpits. You can use roll-on deodorant on your feet or apply an antiperspirant spray. If your foot smell issues are serious, you can consider seeking out a Drysol prescription to apply several times a week.
- Alternate shoes: Switch out the shoes you wear every day, especially sneakers. This gives bacteria time to die off before the next wear and keeps things fresher.
- Consult your doctor: Foot smells are embarrassing for all of us, but if your issues are not easily resolved with these steps or seem chronic, consult your doctor for a more targeted solution such as a topical or oral antibiotic.
It’s natural for feet to become a bit more odorous in the warmer months. While it’s not a big deal, it can cause discomfort or insecurity. Try out these tips for some extra relief from stinky feet this summer.
