When to worry about body odour if you have pitted keratolysis

Pitted keratolysis is a superficial bacterial infection of the thick skin on the soles, especially areas exposed to sweat and pressure. It can create tiny shallow pits, a softened white surface, and a strong foot odour. Some people have burning, tenderness, or itch, while others mainly notice the smell. The appearance can overlap with other foot problems, so persistent changes deserve an examination rather than repeated deodorising alone.

Wash the feet gently and dry between the toes and across the soles. Change socks after sweating, rotate shoes so they can dry fully, and choose breathable footwear when possible. Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes while the skin is affected. Do not dig into the pits or use harsh acids and disinfectants. Record whether the odour improves when feet stay dry and whether the pits are spreading.

Arrange a medical appointment for persistent odour with pits, peeling, soreness, or a soft white sole, especially when moisture control has not helped. Seek prompt care for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, severe pain, fever, or an open wound. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation should seek advice early for any new foot skin change. Treatment may involve a clinician-selected topical medicine and a plan to control sweating.

Ask whether the pits fit pitted keratolysis or another foot condition, which treatment is suitable, and how to prevent recurrence. Mention sweating, work footwear, diabetes, circulation problems, numbness, and any products applied to the soles.