Helpful Tips to Care for Your Feet During Winter

When cold weather moves in, you may take extra steps to protect your skin, lips, and hair from the damaging effects of winter weather. However, if you are like most people, you may not consider what you need to do to keep your feel problem-free.

For high-risk groups of people, such as those with poor circulation or with diabetes, it’s even more important. Some tips to help ensure that your feet remain feeling and looking healthy this winter, keep reading.

Keep Your Feet Dry and Clean

Wool socks and winter boots can help to keep your feet warm and toasty; however, it can also cause them to sweat – profusely in some cases. If your feet are damp, they are going to get cold much more easily and are prone to viral and bacterial infections. Consider using foot powder to keep your feet dry and clean.

It’s also a good idea to use Epsom salt footbaths during cooler weather and dry the feet completely after this bath. Make sure to pay close attention to the areas in between your toes.

Wear Boots that Are Comfortable

It’s important to wear boots that fit properly and that aren’t too tight. If the boots are too tight, it can reduce blood flow to the area, which may make it harder to keep your feet warm and increase the possibility of frostbite .

Make sure you can wiggle your toes, but that the ball of your foot, the instep, and heel are sturdy in the shoe. Your boots should also have a solid base, a supportive heel, and straps or laces that ensure you can maintain stable footing on slippery or wet surfaces. Be sure to look at the tread on your boots, too. You need a pair with good traction that will help you avoid falling on ice or snow.

Always Dry Your Shoes and Boots

Before you go back outside and put your shoes or boots back on, be sure you dry them thoroughly. By doing this, you can keep your feet from getting too clod and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Wash Your Feet Daily

Make sure you wash your feet each day. By keeping your feet clean, you can prevent issues such as toenail fungus and other less-than-desirable problems. Be sure that your feet are completely dry before you put your socks and shows back on, too

Care for Your Skin

When it is cold outside, it means there isn’t much humidity in the air. This means less moisture for your nails and skin. If your skin dries out, it can split and cause painful fissures, pain, and the chances of an infection.

To prevent these issues, use a quality moisturizer each day, not just when it looks like your skin needs it. This will help your skin remain smooth and supple.

By using the helpful tips to care for your feet during winter found here, you can avoid serious and often painful issues with your feet. This is going to pay off in the long run, too, and minimize future problems.