Overview
Natural foot perspiration coupled with the bacteria that normally resides on your skin act in concert to produce foot odor, but chronic stinky feet can have a different cause–and require more extreme treatment. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, integrative physician, between 10 and 15 percent of people suffer from extreme foot odor that’s tough to fight.
Foot Odor Explained
Any adult or child who wears shoes every day experiences foot odor, says the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, or ACFAS. Sweaty feet go hand in hand with malodorous feet. The majority of people who have bad foot odor suffer from it all year, not just in hotter months, says the ACFAS. The odor itself isn’t produced by the sweat alone; it combines with the bacteria on your skin and in your shoes.
Bacterial Causes
Chronically stinky feet may not be caused by the “regular” bacteria on your body, says dermatologist Dee Anna Glaser of the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, but another strain. One study submitted by Biological Science Laboratories, Kao Co. Ltd. of Japan, in April 2006 found that regular foot odor comes from an acid produced when Staphylococcus epidermidis, the skin’s natural “microbial flora,” comes into contact with sweat. Researchers determined that in subjects with strong foot odor, a bacteria called Bacillus subtilis was present.
Foot Hygiene
Preventing smelly feet begins with good hygiene, says the ACFAS. Wash feet every day with soap and water–Glaser suggests using an antibacterial soap, such as Dial, Safeguard or Zest. Dry the feet well, making sure to blot out excess water between the toes, advises the Mayo Clinic. Apply scent-free antiperspirant to the soles of your feet at night, the clinic suggests. Alternately, a drugstore foot powder can absorb extra moisture.
Shoes
Tight shoes can cause feet to sweat, Weil says, so wear footwear that fits comfortably. Avoid plastic shoes, and choose those made from a breathable material instead, such as leather. Don’t wear the same shoes day after day, Weil cautions–it takes time for them to dry out after a single wear. Put them in the sun, he suggests, as this can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Wash and dry shoes that can be laundered, such as canvas sneakers. Make sure they’re completely dry before you put them back on again. Finally, Weil and the Mayo Clinic suggest going barefoot as much as you can to keep feet dry.
Socks
Socks and hosiery made of natural fabrics are best to absorb sweat, says the Mayo Clinic. Choose cotton or wool socks and hose with cotton feet for regular daywear. If engaging in physical exertion, however, put on a synthetic sock–this material draws dampness away from your skin. Change your socks and hose once or twice a day, if you need to, the clinic suggests. Make sure feet are dry before putting on clean ones. And those socks, hose and shoes that are already impregnated with a “stinky feet” smell? Throw them away, Glaser advises.
Other
Weil suggests using good hygiene and making lifestyle adjustments to treat chronically stinky feet first. If nothing seems to work, see a dermatologist or podiatrist for your problem, Glaser advises. Your doctor may recommend other treatments, which can include use of a stronger prescription antiperspirant or a topical or oral antibiotic.
