Young girls worry about their hair, their clothes and whether they fit in with their classmates. Some have the added worry of body odor, particular foot odor. Puberty ushers in a time of complex body changes, including fluctuating hormone levels. Rising hormone levels in girls can contribute to increased perspiration and, consequently, foot odor. Foot odor is embarrassing but preventable. It is rarely a sign of a more serious condition.
Cause
Foot odor is caused by a combination of sweat and bacteria, explains the website Foot Health Facts. Bacteria and fungus thrive in the closed, moist environment of shoes and socks. Some bacteria present in shoes eat away the top layer of skin of your foot, causing an unpleasant odor. Foot odor is usually a combination of sweat and bacteria, and it occurs year-round, not only in during hot weather.
Sweat
Feet contain more sweat glands than any other area of the body except the hands, notes the Fox Mill Foot and Ankle Center of Reston, Virginia, on its website. Not only are feet prone to sweating, but young girls also experience the added hormonal changes of puberty. During puberty, more sweat glands become more active. Surging hormones result in a higher concentration of oil in sweat, which causes more odor. Girls typically begin experiencing signs of puberty beginning at 8 years of age. Excessive sweating may also be an inherited condition, says Fox Mill, but is uncommon in girls.
Prevention
Smelly feet are easily preventable. Proper hygiene is the most important step. Wash feet daily with mild soap and water, and be sure to dry them thoroughly, suggests Fox Mill Foot and Ankle Center. Allow shoes to air out and dry for at least 24 hours before wearing them again, especially athletic shoes. Change your socks at least once daily, and wear thick socks made from breathable materials such as cotton or wool. Similarly, wear shoes made from leather, canvas or mesh and stay away from plastic or synthetic materials that trap moisture. Avoid wearing closed shoes without socks. Wear sandals to allow feet to breathe. Rub your feet with medicated baby powder or cornstarch and sprinkle a little powder in your shoes to help absorb sweat and control odor. If the shoes retain an odor after they have aired out, consider disposing of them.
Treatment
Foot odor is embarrassing but rarely requires medical treatment, says Fox Mill Foot and Ankle Center. If you have foot odor, soak your feet in a solution of strong black tea or white vinegar and cool water for 30 minutes a day for a week. The acid in the tea or vinegar closes pores and kills bacteria.
Considerations
Persistent foot odor may be a sign of an infection. Examine your feet between the toes and on the bottoms for signs of a fungal infection. See a health care professional if your skin appears red, flaky or patchy.
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