How To Fix Sweaty, Smelly Feet

Do your feet seem to sweat more than others? Do they regularly carry an unpleasant smell? Having sweaty and smelly feet on an almost daily basis is definitely frustrating – and if that’s the case, today’s article is for you. When you understand the causes, solutions and prevention steps for this problem, you can make the best decisions on how to care for your feet and help fix the problem. Here’s the low-down on sweaty, smelly feet from our podiatry team here at Masterton Foot Clinic.

Why Do My Feet Sweat So Much?

It’s a little-known fact that the soles of our feet are actually home to around 250,000 sweat glands, making them one of the sweatiest parts of the body. Sweating through these glands is a natural way for our body to regulate our temperature and keep our skin hydrated. 

Unfortunately, for some people, the sweating goes far beyond what’s needed, resulting in excessively sweaty feet. This condition is medically known as plantar hyperhidrosis, a form of hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) that specifically affects the feet.

Common causes of excessive foot sweating include:

1. Genetics – excessive foot sweating tends to run in families, indicating there could be a hereditary link
2. Hormones – puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can affect sweat production, so hormones may be elevated during these times
3. Stress or anxiety – experiencing emotional distress can trigger sweat glands to overproduce
4. Your activity – exercise or prolonged periods in hot, enclosed footwear can naturally increase sweating
5. Medical conditions – some health conditions, like hyperthyroidism or certain medications, may also increase sweating

Why Do My Feet Smell?

Sweat itself is actually odourless, so if you’re experiencing an unpleasant smell alongside the sweat, it’s most likely because the sweat is interacting with bacteria, fungi, or yeast living on your skin. These microbes break down sweat into byproducts that release a strong odour. Additionally, moisture creates the perfect environment for microbes to thrive, amplifying the smell.

Foot odour can be worsened by:

• Wearing shoes and socks made from non-breathable materials
• Failing to properly clean and dry feet
• Reusing damp shoes or socks
• Skin conditions like Athlete’s foot, which produces a distinct (stronger) smell

 

How Do I Know If My Foot Sweating Is A Problem?

Together with the excessive sweating and odour, you want to look out for:

• White, soggy skin. Repeated or prolonged exposure to high moisture levels causes maceration, where your skin becomes soft, pale (white), and prone to damage.
• Skin infections. Constant wetness creates an ideal environment for bacterial or fungal infections, making you more likely to get them (repeatedly).
• Blisters and irritation. Damp skin is more susceptible to friction and injuries, so you may find this occurring more often.
• Peeling or itchy skin. This is often a sign of Athlete’s foot or other fungal infections.

 

How to Fix Sweaty Feet

Managing sweaty feet starts with reducing moisture (as much as possible) and creating an environment that discourages bacterial and fungal growth. While there are some factors (like hormonal ones) that you can’t control, there are plenty that you can, too. Our podiatrists recommend: 

• Updating your daily hygiene routine to include a mild antibacterial or antiseptic soap to remove sweat and bacteria, if a smell is present. After showering or washing your feet (or when coming in after swimming), always make sure to dry your feet completely, especially between the toes. 
• Choosing moisture-wicking socks made from synthetic fibres like polyester or wool blends, which draw sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton, which traps moisture.
• Never wearing the same pair two days in a row. Allowing your shoes to dry fully in a well-ventilated area will help prevent excess moisture (and also prolong the lifespan of your shoes!).
• When possible, choose open-toed or mesh-lined shoes to help with airflow to the feet and toes.
• Using foot sprays, powders or other foot-safe antiperspirant products to help with excess moisture.

Remember, if your feet get damp during the day, switch to fresh, dry socks. The more dry your feet can stay during the day, the better.

 

When Should I See A Podiatrist?

While we can’t stop your body from producing sweat, we do work with those with sweaty and smelly feet to:

• Check for underlying conditions like Athlete’s foot or bacterial infections that may be contributing to the problem and help treat these accordingly
• Recommend the right products to help ease your symptoms and make you more comfortable in everyday life
• In severe cases, we can refer you to specialists to discuss medical options like botox injections, which temporarily block sweat gland activity.

Need more information or help? Book your appointment with our podiatrists in the Wairarapa by calling us at 06 370 4057 or book your appointment online here.