Keep feet healthy throughout the summer months
It’s easy to neglect our feet in the winter when they’re tucked away in thick socks and boots. But don’t worry if they’re not at their best. We’ve got some top tips to help you get them looking and feeling great this summer.
Trim your toenails
Make sure you use proper nail clippers and cut straight across, not too short or down at the corners, as this can lead to in-grown toe nails.
Put away your flip-flops
As tempting as it can be, try not to wear flip-flops all through the summer. They don’t provide support for your feet and can end up giving you arch and heel pain.
Give your feet some TLC
Hard, cracked skin around the heels is very common, especially if you’re wearing sandals or flip-fops. Very gently rub away hard, dry skin with a foot file or emery board and then apply a rich, moisturising foot cream. Take extra care or seek professional advice if you have diabetes and look out for a foot cream that is diabetic-friendly.
Say goodbye to blisters
According to The Society of Chiropodists & Podiatrists, the key to preventing summer blisters is to keep your feet dry, wear footwear that fits well and isn’t too loose and give your feet ample rest so they don’t get hot and sweaty. If you do get a blister, don’t put a plaster over it. Leave it to dry out on its own.
Protect feet by the pool
The floors of showers and changing rooms at open-air and hotel swimming pools are hot spots for infections such as athlete’s foot and verrucas. If possible, don’t wander around public pools barefoot. Protect your feet by wearing water-proof footwear in the changing room and at the pool edge.
Tackle sweat
If your feet sweat more in the summer, it’s important to wash them every morning and evening in warm, soapy water and then dry them thoroughly. An antibacterial wash can help deal with foot odour. You can also try wiping them with cotton wool dipped in surgical spirit and dust them with talc.
Basic hygiene and nail cutting should be all you need to keep your feet healthy. But if you have any problems, such as hard skin that you can’t get rid of, it's best to seek professional help.