What Over the Counter Remedy Works for Foot Odor & Calluses?

If you have a combination of foot odor and calluses, everyone will steer clear of being anywhere near your feet. This is embarrassing and can cause issues when entering someone's home where they require you to remove your shoes. Rather than stress out over the situation, you can get rid of the odor and the calluses first by using remedies found over the counter.

Foot Odor

• Before you head to the drug store, there are things you can do on your own to reduce foot odor. Practice good hygiene regularly. Wash your feet with soap and water every day. If this doesn't take care of the smell well enough, consider washing your feet twice each day instead. Be sure to wear clean socks every day. Some foot odor comes from old shoes with a buildup of body odor in the soles. Consider replacing these shoes to reduce the effect.

  At the store, there are many products that can help reduce foot odor. For instance, tea that includes tannin in the ingredients will help dry out feet and reduce sweating. Soak your feet in a mixture of 1 quart hot water and three to four tea bags. Also consider soaking your feet in a mixture of 1 quart water and 1/2 cup kosher salt to reduce excessive foot sweat.

  There are dozens of products in drug stores that purport to reduce foot odor specifically made for this problem. For instance, Johnson makes shoe inserts called Odor-Eaters that reduce the smell. This is a good alternative to throwing out old shoes if you can't afford new ones. Also try over the counter foot powders as these have a good track record.

Calluses

• Foot calluses can build up on heels and toes. The thick skin looks off-putting and feels leathery. To soften foot calluses, consider purchasing an exfoliating scrub. There are several beauty brands that sell foot scrubs specifically for this purpose, including Sally Hansen. Soak your feet in water for 15 minutes, rubbing the exfoliating lotion all over your feet, paying special attention to calluses.

Callus Scrapers

• Callus scrapers have become popular in recent years. With inventions such as the Ped Egg, more people are taking drastic methods to get rid of their calluses. While callus scrapers are effective, take special care to avoid using them too much. If you rub away at your callus too much, you can get down to your flesh, causing bleeding and infection.