7 essential foot care tips for a blissful summer
As the summer sun shines bright, it’s time to kick off those shoes and let your feet breathe.
Your feet deserve special attention during the summer months, as they are often exposed to sand, heat, and various outdoor activities.
To keep your feet healthy, happy, and sandal-ready, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on how to look after your feet in the summer. By following these tips, you can maintain optimal foot health and enjoy all the joys of the season without any discomfort.
Read more here: 3 common foot conditions – diagnosis and treatment
1. Keep them Clean and Dry
Summer heat can make your feet prone to excessive sweating, leading to bacterial and fungal infections. Clean your feet daily with mild soap and lukewarm water. Ensure that you dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent the growth of fungi. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas to reduce the risk of picking up infections like athlete’s foot.
2. Exfoliate and Moisturise
Sandal season calls for smooth and supple feet. Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and keeps your feet looking fresh. Use a pumice stone or a foot scrub to gently slough off dry skin. Afterwards, moisturise your feet with a foot cream or lotion to keep them soft and hydrated. Pay extra attention to the heels and calluses, as they tend to become rough and cracked during the summer.
3. Protect from the Sun
While you may diligently apply sunscreen to protect your face and body, don’t forget about your feet. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to your feet, especially the tops and sides. Remember to reapply after swimming or excessive sweating. Wearing breathable and lightweight footwear can also provide an added layer of protection from harmful UV rays.
4. Opt for Comfortable Footwear
Summer is the time to embrace open-toed shoes, sandals, and flip-flops. However, not all footwear is created equal when it comes to foot health. Choose shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and a proper fit. Avoid high heels and flat sandals without any arch support, as they can lead to foot pain and discomfort. Look for breathable materials such as leather or canvas to allow airflow and prevent excessive sweating.
5. Practice Foot Hygiene at Public Pools and Beaches
Public pools and beaches are popular summer destinations, but they can harbour harmful bacteria and fungi. Protect your feet by wearing water shoes or flip-flops when walking on hot sand, pool decks, or in public showers. It will help prevent skin infections and reduce the risk of contracting conditions like plantar warts or fungal nail infections.
6. Pamper Your Feet with Soothing Soaks
Give your feet a treat after a long day of summer activities. Soaking your feet in warm water with a few drops of essential oils or Epsom salt can help relieve tiredness, reduce swelling, and provide a relaxing experience. Additionally, adding a few drops of tea tree oil to the foot soak can act as a natural antifungal agent and keep your feet healthy.
7. Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining overall foot health. Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day helps prevent dry skin and keeps your feet moisturised from within.
With the arrival of summer, taking care of your feet becomes even more crucial. By following these simple yet effective foot care tips, you can ensure that your feet remain healthy, comfortable, and ready to take on any summer adventure. Prioritise cleanliness, protection from the sun, proper hydration, and comfortable footwear to maintain happy and sandal-ready feet.
Read more here: How to have happy feet
Read more here: Tips to minimise the risk of foot problems with diabetes
Lisa Lawrenson
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