Our feet often bear the brunt of our daily activities, supporting us through long hours of standing, walking, and running. Despite their heroic efforts however, feet are often an afterthought when it comes to self care. After working with podiatrists on the launch of our products, we were surprised to learn that the single most beneficial thing we can do for our feet only takes 30 seconds a day - moisturize them! Read below to find out why. 

The Medical Foundation of Moisturized Feet

The skin on our feet is naturally thicker than it is on other parts of our body, and most people don’t realize that they lack sebaceous glands and therefore the natural oils that self-lubricate the rest of our skin. As a result, they’re more prone to dryness and cracking, which in turn can lead to a variety of foot issues, including painful fissures, calluses, and even infections. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) emphasizes the importance of maintaining adequate foot moisture and a strong skin barrier as a critical first line of defense. 

Starting with Prevention

When skin is dry or cracked, it can no longer function optimally as a barrier. It allows bacteria and fungi from socks, shoes, bathroom floors and pool decks to cluster and multiple, leading to common conditions like athletes foot and fungal nail infections. The Mayo clinic recommends regular moisturization as part of a comprehensive approach to preventing infections. Moisture helps to heal microscopic fissures and cracks, encourages the exfoliation of dry, aged cells and promotes the emergence of fresh, healthy skin. 

Care for Chronic Conditions

Individuals with chronic foot conditions, such as diabetes, are particularly vulnerable to foot-related complications. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) emphasizes the importance of daily foot care, including moisturization, for individuals with diabetes. Keeping the skin healthy and intact is one of simplest ways to prevent diabetic complications that often start in the skin with fissures and ulcers.

Enhanced Comfort and Flexibility

From a medical perspective, well-moisturized feet are a must, but when it comes to personal hygiene and comfort, hydrated feet simply feel better! Dry, cracked skin can be uncomfortable, restricting the natural flexibility of the foot, and also annoying (just ask anyone whose heels regularly snag their sheets). Regular moisturization helps to keep the skin smooth, soft and pliable, for better comfort and flexibility.

Choosing the Right Moisturizer

Not all moisturizers are created equal, and the choice of a foot cream matters. Podiatrists always recommend choosing a moisturizer that has been specifically formulated for the unique anatomy of our feet. They recommend Pedestrian’s Walker’s Cream because it contains African Shea Butter, Moringa Seed Oil and Aloe Leaf Juice alongside other natural ingredients that keep even the toughest, driest skin moisturized and protected. 

So as we think about skincare for our face,  body and hands, let’s not forget our feet! They’ll feel better and function better with the right amount of moisture and a few minutes of care.