Sweaty Feet? Here’s how to deal with it!

Are there any complications?

When there is increased moisture on the feet, it greatly increases your chances of foot infections such as tinea (aka athletes foot). It can also increase your chances of blistering, cuts and breaks in the skin's surface which can then lead to other infections!

In people with other conditions which put the feet at risk, such as diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, this excessive sweating can lead to more serious conditions such as cellulitis and ulceration.

So how do I fix it?

Regular foot care

• Ensure that you wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap and water and dry thoroughly. Especially between your toes! This will make sure any bacteria is eliminated and will stop the lingering of foot odour.
• Keep your toenails short and clean.
• If you have any hard skin on the soles of your feet, come visit us at our clinic so we can remove it - this can become soggy when damp, meaning it's a perfect place for germs to grow.
• Consider foot soaks! These can kill all sorts of nasty things.
  

Pick the right socks

• It is super important to change your socks daily. If you exercise or find yourself sweating a lot, you may even need to change them 2x daily.
• Make sure that your socks are made from natural fibre or are designed to absorb moisture. Avoid any man-made/synthetic materials such as nylon… these trap moisture and can lead to odour issues.
  

Footwear

• Just like the socks, make sure that you're avoiding synthetic/manmade materials. Getting shoes made from natural materials will allow your feet to “breathe”.
• Alternate your shoes daily so allow them to thoroughly dry between wear. Airing them and putting them out in the sun on a hot day will allow them to dry and kill any nasties lurking inside them.
  

Products that might help

• Antiperspirant deodorants reduce sweating by mechanically blocking the sweat ducts. Just like on your armpits, you can also use these on your feet (please get a specific one for your feet, no need for sharing). Strong antiperspirants for excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) containing aluminium chloride are available over the counter. These come as a roll-on solution, spray or dusting powder. They are used once a day until the problem improves (usually for about a week), then as needed. These can help with not only the sweating itself but also the odour!
• Consider using an antifungal foot spray or powder at night.
  

If you are still struggling with excessive sweat, come visit us at our clinic and we will be able to help you tackle this issue!