Foot Odor
The feet and hands contain more sweat glands than any other part of the body (about 3,000 glands per square inch). Smelly feet can be not only embarrassing but uncomfortable as well.
Feet smell for two reasons: you wear shoes and your feet sweat. The interaction between your perspiration and the bacteria that thrive in your shoes and socks generates the odor. Therefore, any attempt to reduce foot odor has to address both your sweating and your footwear.
Smelly feet can also be caused by an inherited condition called hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, which primarily affects men. Stress, some medications, fluid intake and hormonal changes also can increase the amount of perspiration your body produces.
Feet smell for two reasons: you wear shoes and your feet sweat. The interaction between your perspiration and the bacteria that thrive in your shoes and socks generates the odor. Therefore, any attempt to reduce foot odor has to address both your sweating and your footwear.
Smelly feet can also be caused by an inherited condition called hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, which primarily affects men. Stress, some medications, fluid intake and hormonal changes also can increase the amount of perspiration your body produces.
TREATING FOOT ODOR
The number one defense against foot odor is keeping feet clean and dry. Thoroughly wash the feet daily. Also, choose moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes and, if possible, rotate closed-toe shoes, such as gym shoes and work boots, so you’re not wearing the same pair every day. Avoid walking barefoot in moist, public areas where feet can pick up dirt and fungal infections which can also increase odor-causing bacteria.
When sweaty feet are impossible to avoid, foot treatments can help. However, avoid foot deodorant sprays that only mask the odor with artificial fragrances without addressing the odor-causing bacteria. Instead of covering up the odor, you need a formula that kills the bacteria that releases the odor.
When sweaty feet are impossible to avoid, foot treatments can help. However, avoid foot deodorant sprays that only mask the odor with artificial fragrances without addressing the odor-causing bacteria. Instead of covering up the odor, you need a formula that kills the bacteria that releases the odor.