Boric acid, the solution against sweaty feet?

Boric acid, the solution against sweaty feet?

Boric acid is a chemical that, in addition to hydrogen and oxygen, contains another lesser-known chemical element, boron. Antifungal, it is very often used for medical purposes. Boric acid is also thought to have an effect on the perspiration of the feet. However, its use in high doses would not be without danger.

Heavy sweating of the feet, a common problem

The sweating of the feet concerns everyone, more or less intensely. For one simple reason, the feet contain a lot of sweat glands, which are responsible for sweating.

Heat, sport or strong emotions are the cause of more sweating of the feet. But people who sweat very intensely on their feet suffer from a real pathology, hyperhidrosis.

Another problem with excessive sweating is odor. Enclosed in socks and shoes, the feet create an environment conducive to the development of bacteria and fungi, themselves responsible for bad odors.

Fight against sweaty feet with boric acid

What is Boric Acid

Boric acid, also known as borax, is a chemical. This is used in very many cases. Antiseptic and antifungal for the epidermis, it also exists in the form of an ophthalmic washing solution to treat irritations.

In medicine, it is also used regularly for its astringent qualities which make it possible in particular to treat oozing wounds.

Generally speaking, boric acid is a chemical that is used in the composition of many drugs.

It is also possible to find it in powder form and inexpensively on the market, more often under the name of borax.

In another register and at higher doses, it is also used as an insecticide and repellent.

How does boric acid work on the feet?

At the rate of a pinch of boric acid powder in shoes and / or socks, boric acid limits foot sweating thanks to its absorbent and antifungal action. In other words, it fights against both humidity and the development of fungi.

At first glance, boric acid would therefore be the ideal and inexpensive solution to this problem.

Is boric acid dangerous?

A priori, boric acid does not present any immediate dangers, especially since it has been used medicinally for decades.

However, in July 2013, the ANSM (National Medicines Safety Agency) alerted hospital professionals to the dangers of boric acid, which can cross the skin barrier. Its use could indeed have serious toxic consequences, in particular on fertility, but also more simply on damaged skin. However, this toxicity would occur at doses much higher than those used in current pharmaceutical preparations.

However, in personal use, not subject to precise dosages, the risk, even if it is minimal, exists.

Vigilance and the precautionary principle are therefore essential for frequent use of this substance in the context of sweating feet.

Other methods to fight sweaty feet

Today there are effective medical methods to limit excessive sweating. Natural tips other than boric acid can also help people with small to medium foot sweating.

Baking soda to limit sweating

Baking soda, a true multi-use ingredient in all areas of life, is an effective solution. For foot perspiration, it combines the two expected functions: limiting perspiration by absorbing it and preventing bad odors.

To do this, just pour a pinch of baking soda in your shoes, whether for city or sports, or to gently rub the soles of your feet with a little baking soda before putting on your shoes.

Regular foot baths with baking soda are also a good solution to limit the effects of sweating.

Opt for natural materials

On the market, there are also antiperspirant soles that show their effectiveness. Just like some creams that limit sweating.

At the same time, it is also necessary to adapt your choices of socks and shoes and to opt for breathable and natural materials. These really limit sweating and odors.

 

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