Why do my feet smell?
Smelly feet are usually caused by bacteria. We naturally have a skin microbiome which is part of our protective barrier mechanism. However one of these healthy bacteria, or a non-native species, can over develop. As the bacteria multiply and metabolise, they give off smelly metabolic by-products. Regular washing is insufficient to deal with this issue, as it doesn’t arise from a lack of hygiene. The overgrowth of bacteria often happens due to feet being too sweaty or too dry.
What can I do?
Thankfully this is easily dealt with by using a topical antibiotic. This comes in a gel or liquid, which is available on prescription. Please ask your podiatrist for details. You apply this to your feet daily for 2 weeks which will kill the bacteria, allowing your native species to gradually colonise at a normal bacterial load again. The overgrowth of bacteria often happens due to feet being too sweaty or too dry, so the skin moisture balance will need restoring as well.
This also often happens to people who don’t wear socks with their shoes. So do make sure you always wear socks, especially bamboo or cotton, when you are wearing shoes. Even once you have sorted out your skin, you may find some of your shoes are irredeemable, so sadly will need to be thrown away.
If you have concerns about your smelly feet the don’t suffer in silence! Contact us today to arrange an appointment with one of our HCPC registered podiatrists who will be happy to help you feel comfortable with your feet again. Fill in this form and a member of the team will get in touch!
