Summer is the perfect time to show off your feet in sandals or flip-flops. But during this season, your feet may need some extra care due to the heat, sweat, and exposure to various outdoor activities. Here are some tips for summer foot care you can follow to ensure your feet are in their best condition throughout the season.
Keep your Feet Clean and Dry
Sweat and heat can moisten your feet, allowing bacteria and fungi to thrive. This can result in issues such as foot odour and athlete's foot. To avoid these foot problems, you should thoroughly clean your feet with soap and water daily. While doing so, pay attention to the spaces between your toes. After washing, completely dry your feet, particularly the areas between your toes to prevent fungal growth.
Wear Breathable Footwear
As the heat and humidity increase during the summer, you should not only wear breathable clothes but also breathable footwear. This will allow air to circulate your feet and helps to keep them dry. You can choose sandals or shoes made of natural materials, such as canvas or mesh, that allow your feet to breathe and prevent excessive sweating.
Also Read: Walk Barefoot On Grass Every Day And Unleash These 7 Health Benefits
Protect your Feet from the Sun
Just like the rest of your body, your feet can also get sunburned. When you are in the sun, you should ensure to apply sunscreen on your feet, especially on the tops and sides. Also, apply sunscreen on your ankles and lower legs, if they are exposed to the sun. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Moisturise your Feet
Summer heat and sun exposure can cause your feet to dry and crack. To prevent this, you should apply a foot cream or lotion to your feet daily to keep them moisturised. You should look for a foot lotion with components like shea butter to help moisturise and nourish your feet.
Take Care of Blisters and Calluses
While running or hiking during summer months, you can get foot problems like blisters and calluses. If they occur, you should avoid popping them, as it can increase the risk of infection. Instead, cover them with a bandage or blister pad to protect them from further friction. Calluses, on the other hand, can be gently softened with a foot file after soaking your feet in warm water. While doing so, you should avoid using sharp objects to remove calluses, as they can cause cuts or wounds on your feet.
Also Read: Foot Peeling: Causes And Preventive Measures
Rotate your Footwear
Wearing the same pair of shoes or sandals daily can lead to sweat buildup and foot odour. To keep your feet fresh, try to rotate your footwear and avoid wearing the same pair of shoes for consecutive days. This allows your shoes to dry out between wears and prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause foot odour.
Conclusion
If you notice any foot problems, such as persistent foot pain, swelling, redness, or signs of infection, you should seek professional help. Early detection and treatment can prevent foot problems from worsening and help you maintain healthy and happy feet during the summer.
Disclaimer: The article is written for informational purposes. Consult your healthcare provider to know more about preventive measures for foot problems during the summer.
