Foot odor occurs when sweat becomes trapped inside shoes or socks, leading to a multiplication of bacteria. The bacteria then produce isovaleric acid, according to ePodiatry, which is the substance responsible for the specific odor associated with smelly feet. Foot odor is rarely a cause for medical concern and most cases respond to frequent bathing and other lifestyle changes.
Daily Care
Bathing your feet once or twice each day with soap and warm water will control bacteria growth and reduce foot odor. After bathing, ePodiatry recommends thoroughly drying your feet, including between your toes, and dusting your feet with a foot powder to absorb sweat. Going barefoot as much as possible when you are at home also is helpful for controlling foot odor, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Soaking
Soaking your feet daily can dry them out and help to control odor. MotherNature.com recommends making a foot soak by mixing a half cup of vinegar or kosher salt in one quart of warm water. Soak both feet in this solution for 15 to 20 minutes every night. Foot soaks containing black tea, aluminum acetate or baking soda may also be beneficial.
Proper Footwear
Socks and shoes that become wet with sweat will smell and contribute to foot odor. Changing your socks every day and after exercising will help to reduce odor. ePodiatry suggests wearing thick, absorbent socks made of natural materials, and allowing shoes to dry out between uses. Remove the innersoles from your shoes and place them in the sun to dry them and help to destroy bacteria.
Medication
Topical 20 percent aluminum chloride hexadrate is available by prescription for controlling sweating and foot odor. Apply this medication to your feet every night for maximum effectiveness. The Mayo Clinic warns that this and other prescription-strength antiperspirants can cause skin irritation and swelling and should be washed off in the morning.
Iontophoresis
Your feet have more sweat-producing glands than any other part of your body, according to ePodiatry. This large number of sweat glands, combined with the fact that your feet are covered with shoes and socks most of the time, contributes greatly to foot odor. A procedure called iontophoresis can help to reduce foot odor by deactivating the sweat glands in your feet. Iontophoresis works by passing an electrical current through the skin to switch off sweat production.
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