Smelly feet also commonly referred to as Bromodosis is a pretty common problem for men who sweat a lot. Although a simple problem, this can get you into sticky situations. Imagine you are in a corporate meeting and suddenly the air-conditioned room is filled with an unpleasant smell coming from your feet. Don’t let yourself run into this embarrassing situation. But how? Smelly feet can be treated quickly and easily at a very low cost.
Why do your feet smell?
Our feet produce a lot of sweat. They have more sweat glands than any other part of the body. These glands release sweat throughout the day to help cool our bodies and keep our skin moist. Everyone’s feet sweat, but teenagers are most prone to this because their bodies produce hormones that make them sweat more. People who are on their feet all day at work, are under a lot of stress, or have a medical condition that makes them sweat more than others tend to have sweatier feet.
There are naturally some bacteria on the feet. These bacteria help break down sweat on the feet as it’s released. If bacteria and sweat build up, a foul odor can form. Extra bacteria tend to form when a person sweats in their shoes, takes them off, and then puts them back on without allowing them to dry fully. Poor hygiene can also play a role in causing bromodosis. Infrequent foot washing or not changing your socks at least once a day can allow extra bacteria to grow on your feet. This can cause foot odor to worsen. Tips and Tricks to Get Rid of Smelly Feet
Here are some of our tips and remedies to get you out on your troubling feet:
Wearing Socks
We Indians are in such a hurry always that we forget some basic rules related to shoes. Whenever you are wearing covered shoes, you should wear socks. Socks not only keep your feet clean and safe but also protects your shoe from sweaty feet. Since you are ignoring that sock, the sweat continuously gets accumulated inside the shoe and it becomes a feeding ground for bacteria. If your feet sweat excessively, you can use socks, especially those made from sweat-wicking materials, which can absorb sweat and reduce odors.
Alternate the Shoes and Socks
You should alternate your shoes every day. This gives your shoes enough time to dry out in between and helps to cut down on smelly feet. The same goes for your socks. Alternate your socks to keep your feet in the best condition. The more hygiene you maintain further will the odor drift away from your feet.
Hygiene of your Feet
Keeping your socks and shoes clean is not the only thing that you have to keep in your head. You have to maintain the hygiene of your feet as well. Bacterias love to feed on your dead skin cells. If your skin shed a lot and even if it doesn’t you should use a scrub or pumice stone to remove dead skin cells 2-3 times a week to avoid build-up. Clip your toenails often so they’re short, and make sure to clean them regularly. Use a cotton ball to apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to your feet every night. This will help to dry out your feet. Avoid applying it to any cracks in your skin. Apply an antifungal foot spray or medicated foot powder on your feet sometimes to keep the bacterial growth in check.
Black Tea
Black tea which is rich in tannic acids can kill odor-causing bacteria and close the pores of the feet. This helps your feet to sweat less. Boil two tea bags in water for 15 minutes. Remove the bags and mix the tea water with some more water. Let the mixture rest for a while, then soak your feet in it for 15- 30 minutes. Not only will this take care of the odor but the warmth will take away all your stress of the day and leave you happy with your happy feet.
Vinegar
Vinegar is not only a key ingredient in Chinese recipes. This fermented liquor works like magic taking away your foot odor. The acid in the vinegar neutralizes the odor that kills the bacteria. If you feel plain vinegar is too bland, you can go for an apple cider vinegar mixture. Mix half a cup of apple cider vinegar in a bucket of warm water, soak your feet in it for 10 -15 minutes and let the magic potion do its wizardry.
Epsom Salt
If you have read our previous blog on pedicures and manicures, or if you indulge in the above-mentioned activity, then you have probably come across this ingredient. It is one of the chief ingredients to experiencing top-notch pedicure. Epsom salt has numerous health benefits and acts as an astringent in reducing sweating and killing bacteria. Mix two cups of Epsom salt in a bucket of warm water and soak your feet in it for 15 minutes, twice a day.
Minty Scrub
Since you have to scrub 2-3 times a week, why not mintify it a bit? peppermint and sugar kill the bacteria caused by sweat. This mint scrub will make your feet smell wonderful. Peppermint cools and deodorizes the skin while sugar removes the dead skin. Mix one tablespoon of sugar and two teaspoons of dried peppermint in a bowl. Take a spoonful of this scrub, add a few drops of water and massage your feet with this paste whenever you get the time.
Although it’s a common condition, bromodosis can make you feel self-conscious and embarrassed on special occasions. However, the good news is, it is quite simple to treat. With daily attention, you should be able to reduce or eliminate your foot odor within a week. The key is making foot care a regular part of your hygienic routine and including the knowledge we provide you in this article. In worst-case scenarios, it is better to consult your doctor who might prescribe you some medications. For more fashion-related tips and information follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to our Youtube channel to get all the latest updates about men’s fashion and grooming. Join our WhatsApp community for regular tips and tricks.
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