Bushra Griffith
If you've ever wondered why your feet smell like cheese, it's due to bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin and producing isovaleric acid, which gives off a cheese-like smell. This is a common condition called bromodosis, which can be treated and prevented through proper foot hygiene and footwear choices. Factors such as the type of socks and shoes worn, the frequency of foot washing and sock changes, and underlying conditions like diabetes or hyperhidrosis can all influence the intensity of foot odour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin, producing isovaleric acid |
| Contributing factors | Synthetic socks, wearing the same pair of shoes daily, not washing feet regularly, not drying feet thoroughly, anxiety and emotional stress, diabetes, immunodeficiency, hormonal changes, kidney disease, fungal infections like athlete's foot |
| Treatments | Wash feet daily with antibacterial soap, use antiperspirant or deodorant spray, wear socks that absorb moisture (e.g. cotton, wool, bamboo, or natural fibres), rotate shoes to allow drying, trim toenails, use medicated foot powder, apply rubbing alcohol, use antifungal treatments |
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What You'll Learn
- Foot odour is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin, producing isovaleric acid
- Wash feet daily, focusing on areas between toes, to reduce bacteria
- Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat
- Cotton or wool socks absorb sweat better than synthetic fibres
- See a podiatrist for expert advice on treating foot odour
Foot odour is caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin, producing isovaleric acid
Foot odour is a type of body odour that affects the feet of humans. It is primarily caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin, producing a cheese-like smell due to isovaleric acid. While fresh sweat doesn't have a smell, it creates an environment for certain bacteria to grow and produce odours. These bacteria are naturally present on our skin as part of the human microbiome. The front part of the foot produces the most sweat, and wearing closed-toe shoes can trap moisture and allow bacteria to thrive.
The type of socks and shoes you wear can also contribute to foot odour. Synthetic fibres can trap moisture, creating an inviting environment for bacteria. On the other hand, cotton or wool socks are more absorbent and can help keep your feet dry. Wearing the same pair of shoes every day can contribute to bacterial growth, while rotating between different pairs and choosing well-ventilated shoes can help reduce odour.
To prevent foot odour, maintaining good foot hygiene is essential. This includes washing your feet regularly, especially between the toes, and making sure they are completely dry before putting on socks and shoes. Using antibacterial soap, changing socks daily, and wearing socks made of breathable materials like cotton or wool can also help reduce moisture build-up. Additionally, using foot powder, medicated insoles, or insoles designed to reduce odour can be effective.
In some cases, foot odour may be due to underlying conditions such as athlete's foot, a fungal infection that can be treated with antifungal creams or sprays. If foot odour persists despite good hygiene practices and attention to footwear, seeking advice from a podiatrist or medical professional is recommended. They can help identify any potential bacterial or fungal infections and suggest appropriate treatments.
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Wash feet daily, focusing on areas between toes, to reduce bacteria
The soles of our feet contain 600 sweat glands per square centimetre of skin, more than any other region of the body. Although fresh sweat doesn't have a smell, it contains salts, glucose, vitamins and amino acids, which serve as food for the bacteria that live on our feet. When these bacteria break down the sweat on our skin, they produce isovaleric acid, the same substance that gives stinky cheese its signature aroma.
To reduce the bacteria on your feet and prevent foot odour, it is important to wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to the areas between your toes. This will help to remove the dead skin that bacteria feed on. It is also important to make sure your feet are completely dry before putting on your socks and shoes. You can follow this up with an antiperspirant or foot powder to reduce sweat.
It is also a good idea to alternate between different pairs of shoes, to ensure they have time to dry out completely before you wear them again. Wearing the same pair of shoes every day can lead to a buildup of sweat and bacteria. Similarly, it is important to change your socks daily, especially if you have sweaty feet. Choose socks made from materials that absorb sweat, such as cotton or wool, rather than synthetic fibres, which can trap moisture.
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Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat
If you're struggling with foot odour, it's important to address the root cause. Foot odour is primarily caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin and producing isovaleric acid, which gives off a cheese-like smell. To combat this, you should focus on reducing sweat and creating an environment that discourages bacterial growth.
Wearing breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks is a crucial step in reducing foot sweat and preventing odour. Here are some tips to help you choose the right footwear and socks:
Breathable Shoes
When selecting shoes, look for designs that promote breathability and airflow. Modern styles often incorporate mesh portions, keeping your feet cool and enhancing ventilation. It's also important to avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Giving your shoes time to dry completely helps prevent the buildup of bacteria, which thrive in damp conditions. Alternating between different pairs of shoes can effectively curb bacterial growth and reduce odour.
Moisture-Wicking Socks
Socks play a pivotal role in managing foot sweat and odour. Opt for socks made with moisture-wicking materials, which excel at drawing sweat away from the skin and promoting evaporation. Synthetic fibres, wool, and certain blends incorporating nylon, spandex, and natural fibres like bamboo are excellent choices for their moisture-wicking capabilities. These materials help keep your feet dry, inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing the chances of odour.
Look for socks with features like mesh panels, which further enhance breathability and prevent moisture buildup. Additionally, consider the sock height. Choosing socks that are slightly higher than your footwear facilitates better moisture movement from your feet into the air, keeping your feet drier for longer.
Antimicrobial Properties
Some socks are designed with antimicrobial properties, harnessing the natural antimicrobial power of certain fibres, such as bamboo. These socks actively combat bacteria, hindering their growth and reducing the likelihood of odour development.
Fit and Comfort
While combating odour is crucial, don't overlook the importance of comfort and fit. Look for socks that offer targeted compression and cushioning, providing support and reducing friction during physical activities. A seamless toe closure, anatomical fit, and strategically placed cushioning can make all the difference in ensuring your socks are a joy to wear.
In conclusion, by investing in breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks, you can effectively reduce foot sweat and create an environment that discourages bacterial growth, ultimately minimising odour. Remember to practise good foot hygiene, wash your socks and shoes regularly, and allow them to dry completely before reuse.
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Cotton or wool socks absorb sweat better than synthetic fibres
Foot odour is primarily caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin, producing a cheese-like smell due to isovaleric acid. Synthetic fibres tend to trap moisture, creating an inviting environment for bacteria to thrive. Cotton and wool socks, on the other hand, are natural fibres that are more effective at absorbing sweat and keeping your feet dry.
Cotton socks are a popular choice for many due to their softness, breathability, and suitability for sensitive skin. They are excellent at absorbing moisture, making them ideal for everyday use. However, they tend to hold onto moisture, keeping it against your skin. This can lead to blisters and fungal infections, especially during intense activities or in wet conditions. Therefore, cotton socks are not recommended for individuals with sweaty feet.
Wool socks, especially those made from merino wool, are highly effective at absorbing sweat. Merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling wet, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Additionally, wool has natural odour-fighting properties, making it an excellent choice for controlling foot odour. Wool socks are also durable and suitable for cold weather, making them a popular choice for outdoor activities.
Synthetic blend socks, such as those made from polypropylene, CoolMax, or DryMax, are known for their moisture-wicking properties. They effectively pull sweat away from the skin, making them suitable for high-intensity activities and athletic use. Synthetic blends also tend to have a faster drying rate compared to wool. However, they are not as effective at odour control as natural fibres like wool.
To summarise, while cotton and wool socks are superior at absorbing sweat compared to synthetic fibres, it is important to consider the trade-offs. Cotton socks can retain moisture, leading to blisters and infections, while wool socks may be more expensive and less suitable for intense activities. Synthetic blends offer a balance between moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties but may not provide the best odour control. Ultimately, the choice of sock material depends on individual preferences, activity levels, and specific needs.
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See a podiatrist for expert advice on treating foot odour
If you're struggling with foot odour, it may be time to see a podiatrist. Podiatrists are experts in foot care and can offer a range of treatments to help you manage and overcome your foot odour issues.
Foot odour is primarily caused by bacteria breaking down sweat on the skin, which produces isovaleric acid—the same substance that gives stinky cheese its signature aroma. This means that foot hygiene and footwear choices are key factors in preventing and treating foot odour. Podiatrists can advise on proper foot hygiene, such as washing your feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to the areas between your toes to reduce bacteria. They may also recommend antibacterial soap or foot powder to further reduce bacteria on the skin.
In addition to hygiene, podiatrists can advise on footwear choices to reduce foot odour. This includes choosing shoes designed for breathability, with mesh portions that keep your feet cooler and increase airflow. Rotating between different pairs of shoes can also help, as wearing the same pair every day contributes to the build-up of bacteria. Podiatrists may also recommend specific types of socks, such as those made from cotton or wool, which are better at absorbing sweat and keeping your feet dry.
If proper hygiene and footwear changes are not enough to manage foot odour, podiatrists can offer a range of medical treatments. This may include prescription antiperspirants with higher concentrations of aluminium chloride to reduce sweating, or antifungal medications to treat fungal infections like athlete's foot, which is a common cause of foot odour. In more severe cases, they may recommend other treatments such as iontophoresis, Botox injections, or even surgery to remove sweat glands in the feet.
By seeking expert advice from a podiatrist, you can identify the underlying causes of your foot odour and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you regain confidence.
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Frequently asked questions
Your feet have about 250,000 sweat glands, making them one of the sweatiest parts of your body. When feet sweat, the skin gets wet and creates an inviting environment for bacteria. Wearing shoes and socks traps sweat and bacteria, making the foot odour worse. The bacteria multiply, eating the dead skin cells and oils on your feet. As the bacteria break down, they release a smelly odour.
Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly. Change your socks daily and opt for socks that absorb moisture rather than synthetic socks that trap moisture. Rotate between different pairs of shoes and choose well-ventilated shoes.
Yes, the medical term for excessively smelly feet is bromodosis.
Most of the time, foot odour is not a sign of an underlying illness. However, severe sweating and foot odour in every season could be a sign of hyperhidrosis, which is excessive sweating even when you are not overheated.
Apply an antifungal foot spray or medicated foot powder on your feet once daily. Insert medicated deodorant insoles into your shoes. Try various types of antibacterial soaps until you find one that works for you.
