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Foot odor sprays
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025

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The main indication for the use of a spray against unpleasant foot odor is pathological sweating (hyperhidrosis).
Sweat, together with multiplying bacteria, decomposes into "odorous" substances. "Clean" sweat itself has no odor.
Excessive sweating occurs for various reasons – and can be natural or pathological:
- when using shoes, socks, tights made of synthetic materials;
- increased physical activity;
- staying in too hot conditions;
- lack of change of shoes in winter;
- emotional stress;
- fungal skin lesions;
- pathologies of individual organs and systems;
- the presence of hormonal changes and individual characteristics;
- failure to observe personal hygiene and diet.
Cosmetologists offer several options for dealing with the problem:
- masking unpleasant odors with fragrances;
- destruction of bacteria and fungi using triclosan or chlorhexidine;
- reducing sweating with the help of metal compounds (zinc, aluminum, iron, chromium, lead, zirconium).
It is the latter method that underlies the action of antiperspirants, which narrow the pores and thus achieve their goal.
If an unpleasant odor appears suddenly, this is a good reason to contact a medical institution for consultation or examination.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
Pharmacodynamics of active components of sprays against unpleasant foot odor:
- eliminate odor for a long time;
- reduce sweat secretion;
- dry, refresh and soften the skin;
- relieve itching;
- disinfect;
- increase resistance to fungus.
For example, clotrimazole, depending on the concentration in the lesion, inhibits or destroys various fungi.
Most foot odor sprays act locally and are practically not absorbed through the skin. Therefore, their components do not have any undesirable effect on the body.
Names of sprays for unpleasant foot odor
Foot odor spray is an inexpensive and easy way to get rid of discomfort or illness.
Another advantage is that the aerosol is very easy to use on both feet and shoes.
- Oriflame Reviving Foot
An affordable refreshing product with antibacterial and refreshing action, without a strong aroma.
Contains eucalyptus and mint extracts, preventing the spread of odor. Used to treat feet and shoes from the inside.
- Scholl Fresh Step Antiperspirant Foot Deodorant
The effectiveness is that it not only masks the smell, but also destroys the microbes that cause the problem.
It also has antifungal properties, and as an additional benefit, it can be used by people with diabetes.
- Avon Avon Foot works
The Avon product is convenient because it can be carried in a handbag or jacket pocket. Two flavors are available: lime and citrus+mint.
The advantage of this product is its cooling effect, which is very useful during hot weather.
Imported cosmetics prevail on the market. Here are the names of some sprays for unpleasant foot odor:
- Cliven Antiodor - refreshing deodorant spray for feet (Italy).
- Florena spray - for feet with chamomile (Germany).
- Pharmabody F! - refreshing foot deodorant (Slovenia).
- Farmona Nivelasion - foot deodorant (Poland).
- Titania - deodorizing foot spray (Germany).
Eliminates odor for several hours (usually about 8). Manufacturers enrich their products with additional beneficial properties - soothing, softening, cooling, toning.
Pharmacies offer sprays with medicinal properties against excessive sweating, unpleasant odor and fungi (Emchi natural antifungal foot spray, Canesten spray with clotrimazole).
Foot odor spray "42" provides long-lasting protection when wearing sports shoes.
How to use foot odor sprays
- spray onto clean, dry skin of feet in an even, thin layer;
- spray on each leg two to four times, from a distance of two to three centimeters;
- apply every day, but not around the clock;
- wait until it is absorbed, then put on socks and shoes;
- Be sure to wash it off in the evening.
At the same time, you need to take care of your shoes: dry them, air them, spray them with a similar spray. Shoes and clothing items should be of high quality, always dry and clean.
Using Foot Odor Sprays During Pregnancy
There are practically no restrictions on the use of sprays against unpleasant foot odor during pregnancy, if we are talking about a regular hygiene product.
As for medicinal sprays, they should not be used without a doctor’s recommendation.
The instructions for Canesten, for example, stipulate that it should be used with caution during the first trimester of pregnancy. Although doctors have not established any harmful effects of the spray on the woman or the fetus.
Contraindications for use and side effects
There are few contraindications to the use of sprays for foot odor, except perhaps hypersensitivity to individual ingredients.
Aerosol products should not be used around the clock; at night it is useful to give the skin a rest and the pores a chance to breathe.
From time to time, the products need to be changed, since bacteria develop resistance to the active ingredients.
Avoid using aerosols with a strong smell that will ruin your shoes, socks or tights.
A more effective spray is one that does not mask but absorbs the stale smell of feet and shoes.
Side effects of some foot odor sprays include itching, rashes, redness on the feet, and an allergic reaction throughout the body.
Overdose and interactions with other drugs
Overdosing on foot odor sprays is not dangerous to humans.
There are no known interactions between foot odor sprays and other medications.
Storage conditions and shelf life
Not all manufacturers of foot odor sprays indicate storage conditions on the packaging. However, dry, cool places are quite suitable for this. The temperature should not exceed plus 25 degrees.
Products packaged in pressurized cans are very dangerous and should be protected from overheating and mechanical impact. That is why it is especially important to store aerosols in places inaccessible to children and adolescents.
The packaging of foot odor sprays always indicates the expiration date (production date and storage period or only the expiration date). Usually it is three years.
You can get rid of unpleasant foot odor on your own. However, complex cases require a comprehensive approach; then, in addition to hygiene procedures, you should undergo treatment and even lifestyle adjustments, including clothing, footwear, and nutrition.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Foot odor sprays" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.