A foot soak should last around 10 minutes. Any longer could leave your feet dry and cracked. Aim for lukewarm water. Water that’s too hot or too cold could cause redness and other damage. [1] X Research source You can soak your feet in plain water. If you have sensitive skin that tends to react poorly to additives, this might be your best bet. However, adding certain ingredients can help make the foot soak more relaxing and help moisturize and clean your feet. [2] X Research source Listerine is a type of mouth wash that some doctors recommend for foot soaks. Mix one part Listerine with two parts warm water. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes and then apply a moisturizer. [3] X Research source
There are many ways to exfoliate your feet. You can buy foot creams and gels at department stores that come with micro-beads or other exfoliating agents. Use such creams as directed on the box. However, keep in mind that micro-beads have a somewhat bad reputation amongst environmentalists. Beads are not biodegradable and end up causing pollution. [4] X Research source Many people get good results by making their exfoliating cream at home. Any grainy substance, such as sea salt or Epsom salt, can be mixed with water or soap and rubbed against the feet. [5] X Research source To exfoliate, you rub your cream of choice into your feet. Use enough force to smooth out rough patches and remove dead skin cells. Then, rinse your feet and moisturize.
Go to a shoe store and have your feet measured before selecting shoes. A salesperson can assist you in determining what size shoe would work best for you. [6] X Research source Keep in mind most people have one foot that is slightly larger than the other. Select shoe size based on the larger of your two feet. It’s better to have shoes that are slightly too loose than shoes that are slightly too tight. [7] X Research source When standing, there should be about 3/8" or 1/2" inch, about the width of a finger, between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. [8] X Research source Walk around in shoes for a while before making a purchasing decision. Make sure shoes don’t chafe or rub in any uncomfortable places. [9] X Research source Taking these precautions with your shoes is the main way to prevent issues like corns, calluses[10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source , and bunions. [11] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Do not use moisturizer between your toes, as it may not dry properly and could lead to a fungal infection. [13] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020.
If you have painful calluses or corns, apply urea to your feet and wrap them in plastic wrap, then put on socks. Let the cream sit overnight, and in the morning, use a pumice stone to remove the thickened skin. [15] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020. An electronic callus remover is a handheld motorized device that is used to remove smooth out rough skin and remove calluses from the skin. It requires less effort than other means. However, callus removers can be somewhat pricey, costing between $20 and $30. [16] X Research source If you do not want to spend extra money, a foot file or pumice stone might be a good option. You can use a metal or diamond file to rub out calluses and rough skin. You can similarly use a pumice stone, but some find it to be less effective than other means. [17] X Research source
Keep the blister clean and protected throughout the day. Gently wash the blister in the morning with a mild, antibacterial soap. Then apply a band-aid to the blistered area. [18] X Research source Blisters need to breathe to heal, so when possible take your shoes and socks off and remove any bandages. You may have to wait until you’re home from work or school to do so. [19] X Research source
Toothpaste, whitening strips, and hydrogen peroxide are all effective means of un-staining toenails. Hydrogen peroxide is the best option. Stain a q-tip or cotton ball with hydrogen peroxide and gently dab on the stained area. Wait for 3 to 5 minutes before washing the peroxide off. [20] X Research source If you do not have hydrogen peroxide, you can try the same process using whitening strips or toothpaste. Keep in mind this may be less effective. [21] X Research source
Melanoma usually occurs in areas of the body heavily exposed to the sun. However, it has been known to appeal under toenails and on the soles of feet. Check these areas on the regular basis for any new moles or unusual changes to the skin. [22] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Melanoma usually starts as a normal mole and then changes and becomes cancerous. Asymmetrical moles, have irregular or scalloped borders, change in colour over time, are larger than 1⁄4 inch (0. 6 cm) in diameter, or evolve in colour, shape, and size may be a sign of melanoma. If you notice any such moles on your feet, make an appointment with a dermatologist for evaluation. [23] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Be sure to check your feet at home regularly, as well. If you notice pain or swelling or swelling in the colour, texture, or hydration of your skin or nails, see a podiatrist. [24] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020.
You can help prevent bacteria and foot fungus by spraying a disinfectant spray into your feet each day. [26] X Expert Source Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Expert Interview. 22 April 2020. Your doctor will likely prescribe a round of oral antifungal drugs to treat nail fungus. You usually take these drugs from 6 to 12 weeks. Take any medication your doctor prescribes as directed. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance if you have any questions about the medication. Medicated nail polish or nail cream may be prescribed alongside medication depending on the severity of the fungus. [27] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source In rare cases, your doctor may want to surgically remove a nail if the fungus is severe. A new nail will grow in its place, but it may take a long time. You might have to wear protective bandages around your foot as the new nail grows. [28] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
