How to get rid of smelly feet tips and remedies

Foot odour can be the most embarrassing thing one can experience. Imagine coming back home after a long day to the foul odour of the feet. Smelly feet are a common problem among adults and children alike. A lot of the time, people don’t know that they have smelly feet because they never took a moment to pay attention to this sensitive area. Not only are smelly feet socially embarrassing, but they can also be a health hazard. In medical terms, smelly feet are referred to as “Bromodosis.” While most of us have a certain smell to our feet,  however, there are times when our feet get more stinky than usual. This can happen for a number of reasons, like sweating too much, tap water that has too many minerals in it, or wearing shoes around all day without changing or showering. Whatever the cause may be, it's important to know how to get rid of smelly feet so you're not walking around with stinky feet all day! 

This article will help you find out why as well as how to get rid of smelly feet and prevent it from happening.

What causes smelly feet? 

Generally, stinky feet are caused as a result of sweat being trapped in your feet. You may have noticed the foul odour after taking off your shoes and socks. Another cause for smelly feet is bacteria. Bacteria lives off the sweat from your feet. This sweat from your feet, as well as bacteria from the ground or water you walk on, will combine to create an acid that causes the unpleasant odour. The sweat itself can also have a strong scent and some people are more prone to sweating than others.

Fungus too can play a part in foul foot odour. Fungus thrives in moist and warm areas. You may have heard of Athlete's foot. This is generally caused due to the environment that your sweating feet create. The warm and humid environment is perfectly suitable for the bad-smelling fungi to grow in.  

Other causes for smelly feet are- certain diseases, poor hygiene, wearing the same shoes and socks every day, etc. 

Remedies for Smelly Feet. 

Given below are some smelly feet remedies that you can try at home - 

1.Salt foot soak - 

Taking care of your feet is essential. Soaks can be an excellent way of exfoliating your feet. Here’s what you can do - prepare a foot bath in a small tub/bowl. Fill it with warm water and mix ½ cups of Epsom salts. Soak your feet in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes and wipe them clean with a towel. Epsom salts help to control the bacteria that lead to stinky feet. 

2.Vinegar foot soak - 

Yet another great foot bath for your reeking feet is vinegar bath. Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that help to neutralize the odour. Just add some warm water and ⅓ cup of apple cider vinegar and soak your feet in the tub. However, people with cuts, sores or scratches should take precautions, as vinegar may irritate the affected areas. 

3.Exfoliation - 

One of the prime reasons why you may have smelly feet, is because of the dead skin cells. Bacteria thrive on the dead skin cells on your feet. Thus, exfoliating your feet or using a pumice stone to remove dead skin can help combat the odour. Using pumice stone 2-3 times a week will help to avoid the build up of dead cells. 

4.Lavender oil -

 Lavender oil is a great remedy that can heal smelly feet and give a soothing effect. Lavender helps to kill bacteria as well as get rid of the foul smell. Just massage your feet with lavender oil. Ensure that you rub the oil well all over your feet and between your toes. Finally, cover your feet with clean pair of socks to enhance the effects of the oil.      

5.Mint scrub - 

Mint is known to have numerous health benefits. Harness the benefits of mint by making your own DIY scrub. To make this scrub, simply get some dried peppermint and crushed sugar. You can also dry the peppermint leaves at home. Mix two tablespoons of dried mint leaves, one tablespoon of sugar and a few drops of water to make a thick paste. Massage your feet with this paste every day to see the results. Mint deodorises the skin and sugar kills the bacteria from the sweat. 

6.Black Tea - 

The tannic acids in black tea help combat the odour causing bacteria as well as close the pores. Boil two bags of black tea and mix it in your foot bath. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes and clean them with a soft towel. 

These were some of the remedies that you can try at home to get rid of foot odour. However, feet are prone to sweating. Thus, here are a few things you can do to prevent smelly odour - 

• Wear the right kind of socks. Ensure you wear fresh pairs of socks every day. 
• Wash your feet every now and then. 
• Avoid wearing tight shoes or shoes made of plastic.
• If your feet sweat a lot, then use antifungal spray or medicated foot powder. 

Although it’s common to have smelly feet, they can be very embarrassing and can make you self conscious. Hence, it’s always necessary to take the required precautions beforehand. Wash your feet daily with a scrub and soap. With daily care and maintenance, you’ll be able to minimise the odour.  If your looking for some amazing foot scrubs, then check out these.

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