Guide your feet this monsoon

Our feet are the most neglected parts of our bodies, even though they are often considered the most important. Yet, our feet can be the most vulnerable because they are exposed to the environment. And, with the monsoon season upon us, foot problems are even more common. Essentially, the moist, wet and humid conditions predispose your feet to more infections and irritations, causing a higher rate of fungal and bacterial infections. Dermatologist Dr Amit Bhasin, will guide your feet this season.

Avoid wearing closed shoes: By wearing closed shoes, you increase the amount of moisture your feet are exposed to. This then predisposes you to those pesky fungal infections. Instead, wear open toed shoes to keep your feet properly aired out.

Dry your shoes: Often, after walking around during monsoons where the ground is wet and puddles abound, your shoes tend to get soggy. Never wear wet shoes! Make sure you dry out your shoes overnight so that they are dry again when you use them. In fact, if you keep them out in the sun, then you will also have the benefit of UV rays killing bacteria.

Keep your feet clean: Make sure you wash your feet every day after you come back home. Get that grime and mud off your soles with gentle warm water and a mild soap daily. Then, make sure that your feet are dry before putting on your slippers or socks.

Don't walk barefoot: When walking around at home or at the gym, it's really easy to leave off your flip-flops. But, when you walk without chappals on wet floors, you can pick up diseases such as warts, which are virally transmitted, or athlete's foot. So, remember to wear your flip-flops so you don't get any of those pesky issues.

Avoid getting pedicures: Those outside pedicures put you at risk for getting foot infections.