Tips for Summer Sweaty Feet

We’ve already had a few heat waves roll through Middlesex County this summer—late July was blistering—and that can mean a lot of sweaty, stinky feet.

Aside from the obvious (not wanting to blast your friends, neighbors and loved ones with a funky odor), sweaty feet can also be a problem for the health of your nails and skin. Overly damp feet, socks, and shoes can contribute to flaky skin, cracked heels, and even fungal infections like athlete’s foot or fungal toenails.

So, keeping your feet clean and dry is important! Here are some of our top tips to help your feet beat the summer heat:

• Practice good hygiene! Wash at least daily, including between toes, with antibacterial soap, and dry completely.
• Change out your socks regularly, especially if they’re getting soaked. Choose moisture-wicking materials, too.
• Damp shoes can become a breeding ground for fungi. Have at least 2 pairs of “everyday” shoes to rotate between, and give each pair a full day to dry out between uses. You can also consider using antifungal powder in your shoes.
• Avoid going barefoot in public, since contagious fungal infections (like athlete’s foot) spread easily through contact with infected surfaces. Sandals are fine, though use of footwear that doesn’t support your feet properly (like flip flops) should be limited to avoid other foot problems.
• DO, however, go barefoot at home provided it is safe for you to do so, and give your feet the extra chance to dry out a bit.

If you find your feet are sweating excessively—more than what you might expect from a typical hot summer day—you may have a condition such as hyperhidrosis. Dr. Thapar can help you control this embarrassing and frustrating problem by recommending over-the-counter treatments or prescribing stronger medications. Visit us in South Plainfield, NJ by dialing 908-222-8980 today.