Smelly Feet in Men

Funky foot odor is the last thing you want to think about when you kick off your shoes. However, if your feet sweat a lot and you wear shoes, smelly feet are a done deal. Smelly feet affect both men and women, although it's likely to affect men more frequently, according to the New York State Podiatric Medical Association. Treat smelly feet by adding a few extra steps to your daily hygiene routine.

Origin of the Smell

Put sweating feet in closed footwear and you have foot odor. The New York State Podiatric Medical Association explains that smelly feet are caused by a mix of foot perspiration and the bacteria that live in your shoes and socks. Men are especially prone to an inherited condition called hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating that affects the palms, soles and face. Getting rid of smelly feet is a two-pronged effort -- reducing foot sweat and taking good care of your footwear.

Foot Hygiene Basics

Cleanliness is the first step to treating smelly feet, says the International Hyperhidrosis Society. Wash your feet every day with an antibacterial soap, making sure to cleanse well between each and every toe. Schedule extra time for a good foot soak to treat problem feet. The New York State Podiatric Medical Association suggests soaking your feet in strong black tea for a half-hour every day for a week. Alternately, you can use a soak made of one part vinegar to two parts water. Dry your feet well after a shower or soak, making sure to blot the moisture between your toes.

Extra Precautions

Dusting your feet with foot powder or baby powder can absorb extra moisture and help prevent foot odor. But for ultimate sweat control, the IHS suggests spraying antiperspirant on the soles of your feet and in between your toes. If you have hyperhidrosis, however, you may need to see your doctor for a stronger prescription antiperspirant to keep foot sweat in check.

Footwear

If smelly feet are a problem, you should change your socks and shoes often. Let your shoes air out well after each use, and don't wear the same pair two days in a row -- it takes 24 hours for them to dry out completely, says the New York State Podiatric Medical Association. Toss out odor-saturated footwear that cannot be washed or revived. Shoes made of natural materials, such as leather, are a better bet than those made of synthetic materials, which make your feet sweat more. Similarly, wear socks made of natural fibers, such as cotton, which absorb sweat.

Other Tips

To keep body odor at its least offensive, basic foot care is just as important as showering daily, brushing your teeth and rubbing antiperspirant under your arms. If your feet perspire excessively and you can't keep foot odor under control, the IHS recommends that you see a dermatologist to determine if hyperhidrosis is to blame. Additionally, sometimes the normal bacteria on your feet aren't to blame for foot odor -- when certain strains of bacteria overgrow, you may need to use an antibiotic ointment to treat the problem.