How to care for your feet during monsoon season

Walking through dirty water is unavoidable, exposing feet to germs and infections. Continued exposure to water can make feet soggy and lead to cracks and infections. Wet shoes and constant moisture can cause smelly feet from bacteria. Moist conditions breed bacteria that can cause painful infections around nails and stubborn fungal growth. Walking barefoot increases the risk of getting warts, and consistently damp skin can lose its protective layer, possibly causing allergies.Taking good care of your feet during these wet months is crucial.
Choosing the Right Footwear
Footwear choice is crucial for monsoon foot care. Closed shoes can increase fungal infection risk. This is due to trapped moisture. Opt for open footwear when possible. It allows feet to breathe and dry quickly. When closed shoes are necessary, take extra precautions. Use antifungal powder in your shoes. Carry spare socks to change if feet become damp. Choose water-resistant or quick-drying materials for monsoon footwear. Waterproof shoes can be helpful. They protect feet from dirty water. However, ensure they allow some ventilation. Completely sealed shoes can create a moist environment inside. Rubber sandals or flip-flops are good options. They dry quickly and allow air circulation. Avoid leather shoes during heavy rains. They can get damaged and take a long time to dry.
Thorough Cleaning Routine
Even brief exposure to rainwater introduces harmful microbes. Wash feet thoroughly with antibacterial soap after returning home. Pay special attention to areas between toes. These spaces are prone to fungal growth. Use lukewarm water for washing. Hot water can strip natural oils from skin. Gently scrub feet with a soft brush. This helps remove dirt and dead skin. Drying is as important as washing. Use a clean, soft towel to dry feet completely. Ensure no moisture remains, especially between toes. Damp feet create an ideal environment for fungal infections. After thoroughly drying between your toes, apply talcum powder if you have sweaty feet, and then wear socks. This is more effective than the long process of a pedicure. It helps absorb excess moisture throughout the day. Also, moisturize your feet at night.

Foot Masks for Extra Care
Foot masks provide additional benefits during monsoon. They offer deep hydration, exfoliation, and tan removal. Sock masks are particularly popular and convenient. Sock masks come as pre-moistened, disposable socks. They contain beneficial ingredients for foot care. These masks deliver nourishing components directly to feet. The enclosed environment enhances absorption of active ingredients. Various types of foot masks cater to different needs.
Charcoal masks cleanse and detoxify skin. They help remove impurities picked up from monsoon waters. Vitamin C masks brighten and even out skin tone. This is useful for tackling monsoon-related tanning. Aloe vera masks soothe and hydrate. They're great for irritated or dry skin caused by constant water exposure. Coffee masks offer exfoliating properties. They remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate tired feet. Mix fruit masks combine various fruit extracts. These provide a nourishing and refreshing experience. Jasmine masks offer aromatherapy benefits along with skin care.
Benefits of Using Foot Masks
Regularly using foot masks offers numerous benefits. They are easy to slip on and provide significant benefits for foot health and care. They offer intense moisturization, combating dryness from frequent washing. Many contain gentle exfoliants. These help remove dead skin cells, revealing softer skin underneath. Some ingredients in foot masks reduce tan appearance. This addresses a common issue during monsoons. Antibacterial and antifungal components combat foot odor. This is particularly helpful in damp monsoon conditions. Using foot masks can be relaxing and stress-relieving. They are mess-free and easy to use, perfect for busy days. The enclosed design of sock masks ensures even distribution of treatment.

How to Use Foot Masks
To maximize benefits, make foot masks part of your routine. Choose masks that address your specific concerns. Before applying, soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes. This softens skin and prepares it for treatment.
Gently exfoliate with a foot scrubber if needed. Apply the mask according to package instructions. Most require 20-30 minutes of wear time. Use this time to relax. You can watch TV, read a book, or practice meditation. After the recommended time, remove the mask. Gently massage any remaining product into your feet. Follow up with a nourishing foot cream. This locks in the benefits of the mask. Aim to use a foot mask once or twice a week for optimal results.

Additional Monsoon Foot Care Tips
To keep your feet healthy in the rainy season, trim your toenails regularly and keep them clean and dry. Change socks daily, wear moisture-wicking socks, and let your shoes dry completely between uses. Watch for signs of fungal infections like itching and redness, and use antifungal sprays or powders in your shoes for extra protection. Moisturize your feet, but avoid applying lotion between toes, and wear appropriate footwear in public showers or locker rooms. If your feet sweat a lot, try using an antiperspirant foot spray to keep them dry throughout the day.
Monsoon season requires extra attention to foot care. With proper cleaning, drying, and treatment, you can maintain healthy feet. Choose appropriate footwear and use foot masks regularly.
Inputs by Pravin Bera, Co-founder, Dr.Rashel