Well, the winter season has arrived and this means getting ready for the cold, snow and wind. In addition, you can add walking in slush, sleet and on ice. What it means for you, is to get out the heavier footwear and socks! The winter season can be quite tough for your feet even though they will be covered most of the time. It is the perfect time to conduct a careful evaluation of your feet and prepare them for those long cold months ahead.
When you do this evaluation you will want to look at our foot care tips for winter. Below, we have listed six easy cost-effective ways to optimize your foot health this season and beyond. Dr. Emily Splichal, a podiatrist from New York provides some valuable tips to get ready for the cold months.
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1. Take a polish vacation, suggests Dr. Splichal, in order to help rejuvenate nails. She recommends over-the-counter products such as Biotin, a dietary supplement often recommended for strengthening hair and nails. It's part of the B complex group of vitamins and needed by the body to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and amino acids, the building blocks of protein.
Another useful supplement is black currant oil. According to Dr. Splichal, it contains a fatty acid that keeps nails moist. And, she added, vitamin C is always good for hair, skin and nail health.
2. For those planning to visit a podiatrist this season for a routine exam, Dr. Splichal noted Nuvail is a prescription lacquer applied to the nails to strengthen them. You can ask your doctor for details.
3. Climate control is another source of concern during the colder months when closed-toe footwear is typically worn. "In closed shoes, you want to combat sweating," said Dr. Splichal. Brew some black tea and allow your feet to soak in it. "It has tannic acid that [helps] shrink sweat glands in the feet to prevent sweating," she explained. "Soak your feet for 30 minutes every day for seven days."
4. Dry heels are also a product of winter, said Dr. Splichal, who has a simple remedy: rub Vaseline onto heels after showering or bathing. It acts as a sealant that locks in moisture. For the most effectiveness, cover feet in plastic wrap overnight.
5. For those who want the full spa effect, try smoothing rough heels with a pumice stone. Here, Dr. Splichal suggests first softening the stone with water, then applying to the heels. If opting for a PedEgg foot file, keep feet dry as well before using. Here, a stainless steel micro file gently removes calluses and dead skin.
6. Hosiery can also play a part in foot health. Dr. Splichal suggests socks made with bamboo for breathability, or styles impregnated with silver or copper that exhibit antimicrobial features. While cotton is a natural fiber, Dr. Splichal said it absorbs sweat in socks rather than wicking moisture away; a wool or synthetic blend fiber is a better choice.
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Mehnaz