Why are my feet always sweaty and smelly?

Sweat itself has little odour; moisture held in socks and shoes gives skin bacteria an environment where odour can develop. Excessive Sweating may affect both soles and other areas, or mainly the feet. Peeling, scaling, itching, or soft white skin between toes can point to a fungal infection. Odour with pits or tender areas on the sole also warrants a clinical examination rather than repeated deodorising products.

Wash daily and dry carefully, including between the toes. Change socks when damp, rotate shoes, and choose breathable footwear. Use an over-the-counter foot antiperspirant only as directed and stop if it irritates broken skin. If sweating remains disruptive, a clinician may discuss Prescription Antiperspirant or Iontophoresis after checking your skin and medical history.

Arrange review if odour persists despite drying measures, sweating interferes with work or sleep, or itching and scaling continue. Seek prompt care for sores, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, or sudden changes in sweating. People with diabetes or poor circulation should have foot breaks assessed early.

Ask whether this is plantar hyperhidrosis, infection, or both; which antiperspirant is appropriate; and how to protect skin while treating moisture and odour.