Spring means we’re getting closer to jandal weather!
… which also means it’s time to take a look at the health of your toes - and your toenails.  

Feet that have been tucked away in shoes and socks all winter might not be so attractive when it’s time to kick them off. The warmth and moisture of closed footwear provide ideal conditions for certain skin issues. Itchy, scaly skin, red patches between your toes, or cracked heels could be a sign that your feet need a little support. 

Brittle, dry toenails are also common after those cold, damp months due to the lack of moisture in the air.  Toasting your tootsies against the heater or fireplace might feel good on winter nights, but it’s not so good for your skin! 

Signs of Foot and Toenail Issues

• Dull or discoloured nails

• Nails that split, chip, or break easily

• Thickened or unusually shaped nails

• Dry, peeling skin around the nails 

• Itchy or uncomfortable feet

• Persistent foot odour even after washing

• Peeling or flaky skin on the feet

Even the brightest nail polish or the most lavish pedicure won’t disguise a foot health issue. Worse still, a nail salon may even turn you away if your feet have the kind of issue that could be passed on to other customers. 

Save yourself the discomfort (and embarrassment!). Here are a few simple foot health tips to get your feet looking fab again! 

What is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil often comes up in conversations (and google searches!) about foot and nail health. This strongly scented plant oil is most often associated with Melaleuca alternifolia, a shrub native to Australia. But New Zealand has its own native tea trees: the beautiful mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and kānuka  (Kunzea ericoides). These tea tree species are famous for their active constituents called terpenoids, a type of naturally occurring chemical that helps the plant defend itself from pests, attract pollinators. It also provides tea tree with its sharp, distinctive scent. 

So, what does tea tree oil have to do with feet and nails? Here’s a quick overview!

• Support healthy skin: The terpenoids in tea tree oil help support the healthy balance of your skin, especially in areas that are often subject to warmth and moisture. 

• Freshness and odour control: Tea tree oil has a naturally clean scent that helps feet and shoes to smell fresh, especially after being trapped in sweaty socks all day.

• Supporting everyday hygiene: Tea tree oil is widely used in skincare and nail care. It’s great added to foot soaks or washes to support the natural balance of bacteria. 

• Care for skin and nails: Using diluted tea tree oil as part of your regular footcare routine can support the health of toenails, cuticles, and the skin around them. 

How to Use Tea Tree Oil on Feet and Nails

The great thing about tea tree oil being so popular is that the range of products is huge! Many are designed specifically for foot and nail care. 

Tea Tree Essential Oil 

Tea tree essential oil is derived from the leaves of the Australian native plant Melaleuca alternifolia. The oil is steam-distilled to produce a potent form of the plant’s beneficial properties. It’s often used in skincare and for supporting foot and nail health. 

• To use pure tea tree oil such as Thursday Plantation on your feet and nails, first dilute a few drops with water or a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil, or grab a ready-to-use product, such as Bosisto’s Tea Tree Solution.
  Apply directly to the affected area with a cotton swab twice daily after washing your feet. You can also add a few drops to a footbath for a relaxing soak.
  
  

Tea Tree Foot Lotions and Creams

Horopito is another New Zealand native known for supporting skin and nail health. It’s especially helpful in calming and soothing tickly toes and those damp, moist bits between the toes and on the feet.

Kolorex Foot & Toe Cream is a Kiwi-made foot lotion that combines herbal Horopito, Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil and Vitamin E to support healthy feet and toes. 

Heel Balms

Heel balms are designed to moisturise and hydrate dry, rough, and cracked heels and calluses.

Dr. Organic Tea Tree Heel Balm is made with organic tea tree oil and sunflower seed oil to gently soothe and repair dry, cracked heels, leaving your feet softer and more hydrated. Provides 24 hours of continuous hydration for soft, healthy-feeling feet.

Foot Sprays

Dr. Organic Tea Tree Foot Spray is an aluminium-free, quick-drying deodorant spray made with organic tea tree, aloe vera, and mint. A super easy way to keep your feet feeling and smelling fresh and comfortable all day long!  

Other Foot Care Formulas 

If plant-based options aren’t doing the trick, you may need to consider a pharmaceutical product. Broad-spectrum products such as Daktarin Foot Powder or Lamisil Foot Cream are designed to support common foot and toenail concerns and can be purchased over the counter. 

Remember - if your problems persist, see your doctor. 

Looking After Your Feet and Nails

A little foot hygiene can help keep your feet looking and smelling fresh.  And should you find an irritation in the shower, look after the area so it doesn’t get worse. 

• Check your feet regularly for signs of redness, flaky or peeling skin, or unpleasant odour

• After showering or swimming, use a clean towel to dry between your toes.

• Wear jandals in communal areas such as swimming pools, showers, gyms, and saunas.

• Bacteria love dirty, sweaty fabric. Wash your socks, clothes, and bed linen regularly. 

• When you can, go barefoot! Stripping off your socks and shoes will allow your skin to breathe. 

• Alternating your footwear every few days will give them a chance to dry out between uses. And don’t share shoes with other people! 

• Trim your toenails regularly. And when you can, splash out on a pedicure. It’s called self-care! 

The key to healthy, summer-ready feet is regular maintenance. Tea tree is a great option for your footcare routine - but if you’re not a fan of its distinctive scent, there are plenty of other great footcare products here at Bargain Chemist! Our team can help you find the right product for your needs.

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.