Skin Tag Removal Skin tags are skin growths that are non-cancerous and generally harmless. The medical term for skin growths is acrochordons but they are also sometimes referred to as fibroepithelial polyps and soft fibromas.Skin tags are typically flesh-coloured but they can also be brown or red. They normally appear as lumps of excess skin protruding out from the surface by a thin stalk of tissue. Skin tags often resemble small flesh-coloured bumps in the early stages and some remain as small bumps. However, some skin tags continue to expand and develop into bigger, more prominent growths. Skin tags are usually quite small, under 5 millimetres. However, in rare cases, they can grow up to a centimetre.Skin tags are very common, affecting over 50% of the population at some point during a lifetime. The risk of a skin tag increases after the age of 40.Skin tags typically form in areas where there are natural creases in the skin such as the underarm area, neck, groyne region and in the area under the breasts.Although they’re not usually painful, skin tags can cause discomfort if they rub against or catch on clothing or jewellery. What causes Skin Tags? Skin tags form when extra cells grow in the top layers of the skin. While it’s not fully clear why skin tags develop, one of the main causes may be friction that occurs due to different areas of skin rubbing against each other. Individuals who have a higher risk of developing skin tags include those who have: Diabetes Obesity A family history of skin tags Metabolic syndrome Some medical experts believe that there may be a connection between skin tags and the natural ageing process as well as fluctuating hormones. How to help prevent Skin Tags There is no guaranteed way to prevent skin tags from forming. However, because skin tags can form in part from friction, it may be helpful to avoid wearing clothing and jewellery that rubs against the skin.Because individuals with obesity have a higher risk of skin tags, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight may help discourage the formation of skin tags.There is also evidence to suggest that high blood sugar levels may be associated with skin tags. For this reason, exercising and following a healthy diet may help reduce the risk of skin tags. However, while skin tags may not be aesthetically pleasing, they are not harmful. How to get rid of Skin Tags There are several different ways to get rid of skin tags. The following procedures can be performed in a doctor’s office, usually by a dermatologist:Cryotherapy — One way to get rid of a skin tag is through a process called cryotherapy or freezing. Doctors typically use a chemical such as liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag so that the tissue dies and falls off. It may take up to two weeks for a skin tag to detach following cryotherapy treatment. Sometimes multiple treatments are necessary.Excision — Skin tags can be removed quickly during a procedure called excision. This requires a doctor to cut off the skin tag with a scalpel or scissors.Cauterization — Using a small device called a cautery, a doctor can get rid of a skin tag by burning it off. This method may require several treatments in order to eliminate the skin tag completely.Electrodessication — Using an electrode, a doctor can dry out a skin tag by introducing an electric current. This causes the skin tag to detach.It’s important to keep in mind that skin tags are living tissue with blood circulating. Attempting to cut off a skin tag can lead to bleeding and a potential infection.You can also remove skin tags at home with Scholl’s® Freeze Away® Skin Tag Remover. The skin tag removal kit uses a combination of dimethyl ether, isobutane, and propane to freeze skin tags so that they drop off. Most skin tags only require one treatment and usually fall off within two weeks of using the product. However, the process can be repeated up to four times for more stubborn skin tags. Our skin tag removal kit is designed for simplicity, guiding you through a five-step process for fast, painless, and permanent results. Ensure treated skin tags don’t return. Our kit safely and efficiently helps with the removal of skin tags, providing a reliable solution with professional-grade results.Some skin tags may resemble other types of growths that could pose a health threat. If you have a skin growth that rapidly changes in appearance or is bleeding or causing pain, see your doctor for an evaluation and diagnosis. Related products Scholl Freeze Away™ Skin Tag Remover
How to keep that resolution going One of the easiest ways to keep your motivation up is to look after your feet. There’s nothing more likely to stop any run in its tracks, than problems with your feet. It goes without saying that you need a proper pair of running shoes that fit well, but there are some other quick fixes that will make any run more enjoyable. A little expert help With over 100 years of foot care experience, there are a few things we can help with. Scholl GelActiv™ Sport Insoles will give you better foot support and reduce the shocks your joints may feel when running on hard surfaces – so you can work out for longer. Our sports insoles are athlete tested and can be used in all kinds of athletic footwear. And to make your feet even more comfortable, Scholl Blister Plasters are specifically designed to prevent or protect blisters. Cushioned with a soft gel island pad to provide instant pain relief, each plaster accelerates healing by keeping the blister hydrated and flexible. They are easy to apply, comfortable to wear and stay firmly in place for up to 7 days. Looking after your feet in between runs is just as important too. Regular foot care keeps your feet smooth, healthy and soft, which means they’re always in the best shape possible for your next run. Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm Gold is specially designed to help the tougher skin found on your feet. With moisturising ingredients, it’s clinically proven to instantly hydrate your skin. There are also some really simple things you can do to keep your feet in tip-top shape. Running and your feet: 5 Top Tips A good pair of running socks will help prevent blisters and keep your feet dry Stretch your feet before and after running to reduce the risk of injury and improve circulation and recovery Take breaks. Especially when you’re just starting out, you need to give your feet enough time to recover in between runs Regularly massaging your feet improves circulation and reduces the risk of injury If you do have any pain or swelling, apply an ice pack - or a bag of frozen peas - to reduce the inflammation. If the pain continues or worsens, please seek medical advice So keep your resolution going and make foot care part of your fitness routine. You never know, you might even see your times getting faster. Products: GelActiv™ Sport Insoles Blister Plasters Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm Gold
Can you walk your way to a healthier brain? Yes, you can. Walking is proven to help improve your sleep and gives you a brain boost. What’s good for your sole is good for your mental health and wellbeing too. At Scholl, we’re here to help you feel comfortable and supported whilst you walk. Here are 3 ways walking can help to improve your brain - from your Hippocampus to Gökotta. Walking helps you live longer Every step really counts according to one study¹ presented to the American Heart Association. They found that walking may increase your lifespan - 6 years of research proved that if you walk 2,000 steps every day, you make a 32% difference to your life expectancy. The time of day, how fast you walk and how far you walk all has an impact on your body. Your body benefits from good hormones, stronger muscles and a better functioning brain from walking. And this all contributes to living a longer and healthier life. Walking gives your brain a boost The Hippocampus is the part of the brain that controls learning and memory. As you get older, this gets smaller which leads to impaired memory and increased risk for dementia. Research has proven that you can actually increase this part of your brain with a simple stroll every day. Scientists have even found that 1 year of moderate-intensity exercise, like a brisk walk, can reverse your hippocampus shrinking². So walking can actually grow your brain and help with memory as you get older. Walking improves your sleep Did you know that a good night’s sleep is important to improve your learning, health, memory, decision-making, and even creativity? However, around 20% of adults experience bouts of insomnia. Walking has been proven to also help us fall asleep. So if you’re struggling to snooze, try fixing it with your feet. Melatonin is our sleep hormone that’s released from our brain at night. It’s produced from the happy hormone - serotonin. And a walk in the morning sunshine is proven to increase our serotonin at dawn and our melatonin in the evening. The good people of Sweden love a morning walk for these exact benefits. So much so, they’ve even got a name for it - Gökotta³. Their morning routine involves getting up and outside first thing in the morning to hear the birds singing. Lovely. Walking with comfort Walking clearly is a key component in making our lives longer, our brains healthier and our sleep satisfying. So make the most of your walks by keeping your feet in their best condition. Scholl’s top tips to support your walks are: Keep them cleanDon’t forget to scrub them in the tub with warm soapy water. Changing your socks frequentlyLet your feet breathe as much as you can. But when you’re wearing socks, make sure they’re a fresh pair. Wearing shoes that fit you properlyThere should be just enough space to fit your finger behind your heel whilst you’re wearing your shoes. Check out Scholl’s footcare rangeGet your hands on any of your walking essentials - from insoles to blister plasters. Discover your solution to avoiding lower-back pain and blisters, and find everyday comfort with our range of insoles and plasters. References ¹ Healthline - Walking an extra 1,000 steps may increase your lifespan https://www.healthline.com/health-news/walking-an-extra-1000-steps-may-increase-your-life-span#How-to-squeeze-more-steps-into-your-day ² PNAS - Exercise training increases size of Hippocampus and improves your memory https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1015950108#sec-2 ³ Metro - The Swedish habit of Gokotta could finally make you a morning person https://metro.co.uk/2023/05/23/the-swedish-habit-of-gokotta-could-finally-make-you-a-morning-person-18822776/ Products GelActiv® Insoles Orthotics Blister Plasters
Rotations Rotations are a gentle way of alleviating tension in your ankles and across the top and soles of your feet. Get yourself comfortable in a chair, with a long extended back and both feet firmly on the ground. Lift one, or both feet if you can, off the ground and perform 10 clockwise ankle rotations. Repeat, but this time perform 10 anticlockwise rotations. Relax and reset, putting your feet firmly back on the ground. Points Points are a nice way of waking up your feet - it’s the equivalent of a big stretch of the arms in the morning. Get yourself comfortable in a chair, with a long extended back and both feet firmly on the ground. Lift one, or both feet, off the ground and push them out forward pointing your toes. When you meet a comfortable resistance, hold for a count of 5 seconds. Slowly draw your toes towards your body, pointing them toward your chest. When you again feel a comfortable resistance hold for a count of 5 seconds. Repeat the above 3 times. Relax and reset, putting your feet firmly back on the ground. Big toe stretch The big toe stretch is a simple and effective way of relieving tension through your toes and the sole of your foot. Get yourself comfortable in a chair, with a long extended back and both feet firmly on the ground. Bring your right foot up, resting it across your left knee. Take a comfortable grip of your big toe and gently stretch it back and draw it to the side. In each position, when you meet a comfortable resistance, hold for a count of 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times. Relax and reset, putting your feet firmly back on the ground. Then repeat the exercise with your left foot The alphabet The variety of movements in this exercise can relieve tension and stiffness around the ankle; through the sole and across the top of your foot. Get yourself comfortable in a chair, with a long extended back and both feet firmly on the ground. Lift one foot off the ground and imagine your big toe as the tip of a pen. Then proceed to slowly write out each letter of the alphabet with your toe. Once finished, reset, putting your feet firmly back on the ground. Repeat exercise with your other foot If you’re suffering from pain across your feet and through your arch, it may be a sign of an underlying condition. Click here to find out more: Sore Feet
What are the effects of stress on our body and feet? Stress is an unfortunate aspect of modern life that can have far-reaching effects on our health and wellbeing. Surprisingly, one area that can bear the brunt of this stress is our feet. As the foundation of our entire body, our feet play a crucial role in our overall mobility and comfort. The impact of stress on our feet can lead to discomfort and various health issues. In this article, we will explore how stress affects our feet and how Scholl can provide relief from foot pain associated with stress. How does stress affect your feet? 1. The Arch Enemy: Flat Feet Under prolonged stress, the arches in our feet may suffer, leading to the development of flat feet or fallen arches. The arches act as natural shock absorbers, distributing weight evenly as we move. However, stress can weaken the supporting tendons and ligaments, causing the arches to collapse. This can result in imbalances in foot mechanics, leading to pain and discomfort. Scholl offers a range of orthotic insoles and arch supports that can provide the necessary support to alleviate the pain associated with flat feet. 2. Aching Soles Stress can exacerbate common foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, causing pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Increased tension due to stress can result in stabbing pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. Scholl's heel cushions and gel pads can provide cushioning and support, reducing the pressure on the plantar fascia and easing the pain. 3. Toes in Trouble The impact of stress on our muscles can cause the toes to curl unnaturally, leading to conditions like hammertoes and bunions. These painful deformities can be addressed with toe splints and toe separators, which help realign the toes and relieve discomfort. 4. Stress Fractures Prolonged stress can weaken the bones in our feet, increasing the risk of stress fractures. These tiny cracks in the bones can be extremely painful and require rest and care to heal. Scholl's range of foot care products, including orthotic insoles, can provide the necessary support to reduce the pressure on the bones, aiding in the healing process and preventing further damage. 5. Poor Circulation and Cold Feet Stress can lead to the tightening of blood vessels, causing poor circulation to the feet and resulting in cold feet, tingling sensations, and numbness. Scholl's compression socks can promote better circulation, keeping the feet warm and reducing discomfort caused by poor blood flow. The improved circulation also aids in the healing of foot injuries and reduces the risk of infections. 6. Skin and Nail Issues Stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. This can lead to foot issues such as athlete's foot and ingrown toenails. Scholl's antifungal treatment can effectively combat fungal infections and keep your nails healthy. 7. Putting Your Best Foot Forward: Coping with Stress To reduce the impact of stress on your feet, consider incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help lower overall stress levels, benefiting your feet and your overall wellbeing. Additionally, using Scholl's foot care products can complement your self-care routine, providing targeted relief and support to your feet. Start your day by using one of our ExpertCare File and Smooth 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File System, after a warm shower, and finish your routine with our Eulactol cracked heel balms. Stress can take a toll on various aspects of our health, including our feet. Being mindful of the potential effects of stress on our feet is crucial for maintaining overall wellbeing. Scholl's extensive range of foot care products can be a valuable ally in alleviating foot pain associated with stress. Whether it's providing support for fallen arches, cushioning for plantar fasciitis, or addressing skin and nail issues, Scholl offers effective solutions to help you put your best foot forward in the face of stress-induced discomfort.
Festival foot care essentials As demand increases for unique experiences, more festivals are popping up offering everything from music, arts, food and comedy. But whether you’re just going for a day’s dancing or pitching up for the weekend, remember to take care of your body - right down to your tired feet. Festival going can be more like a sporting event, with five miles or more of walking in a day. So, we’ve put together some top tips to help keep you healthy from head to toe during festival season. Wear the right footwear and look after your feet From choosing the right footwear to bringing footcare products, there’s plenty you can take with you to ensure you look after your feet this festival season. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack footwear for wet and dry weather. Wellies and thick socks keep feet protected from the rain and mud but if your feet do get damp, dry them and put on fresh socks as soon as you can to avoid any foot problems the damp may cause. If you are lucky enough to have a few days of sunshine, then flip flops or trainers will be all you need to get your feet through your festival experience. Walking between camp and various stages means you’re likely to cover a lot of ground, so avoid new shoes that could rub and cause blisters. However, it’s still best to be prepared. Why not take a supply of Blister Plasters with you? Stay hydrated While you’re partying out in the sun, it can be all too easy to forget about something as simple as drinking enough water. Even though H2O isn’t the most exciting option available at festivals, it is essential for keeping the body and skin hydrated. Keeping a bottle of mineral water to hand and taking advantage of any water refilling stations available will go a long way to tackling dehydration. Coconut water is a great alternative to plain mineral water as it’s sweet and packed with electrolytes to get more fluid into your body.6 And don’t forget to keep an eye on your caffeine and alcohol intake as neither is a substitute for water. Stay fresh Don’t fancy trying your luck in the festival showers this summer? Body wipes are a festival necessity for removing dirt, makeup, sunscreen and sweat from the day. Not only can they be easily disposed of, they come in a variety of face and body wipes that can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to continue your day. If you do decide to venture into the showers, make sure you have flip flops to avoid germs and infections such as Verrucae or Warts on feet, that can spread rapidly in these types of environments. Fuel your body In recent years, it has become a lot easier to make healthier food choices at festivals. Start your morning by fuelling up with nutritional options such as porridge, a high-protein energy ball or fruit that will help keep your energy levels up throughout the day. There will be a selection of stalls that provide healthy alternatives to help you feel reinvigorated, ready to start you off on all your festival activities. You can also quench your thirst and stay hydrated by opting for water-filled fruit and veg. If you are looking to fuel your body while keeping your body hydrated, opt for snack choices like strawberries, bananas and tomatoes that have a high-water content. They’re refreshing, but also full of nutritional value. Protect your skin Whatever the forecast is saying before you go, remember to take sun cream. At most festivals, there is always limited shade, especially while you’re watching your favourite bands. So, cover up properly and don’t forget the sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun and its harsh UV rays. Products: Blister Plasters Mixed - 5 pack Blister Plasters Large - 5 pack Verruca and Wart Complete Freeze Remover Kit
Simple steps to treating and preventing recurrence of Athlete’s Foot Look after your shoes with Scholl Fresh Step Shoe Spray 100g Spraying your shoes helps maintain good foot health and reduce odour, keeping your feet healthy from heel to toe. Scholl Fresh Step Shoe Spray 100g with a dual-active formula gives a 24 hour performance against odour, so you can step out with confidence. And once you’ve got your feet feeling smooth and healthy again, there are a few simple ways to keep fungal infections at bay. 5 top tips to keep your feet and shoes fungal free Keep your feet clean and dry Wear clean, dry socks made of synthetic material Wear shoes that fit you properly and allow your feet to breathe Don’t share towels, shoes, or socks Don’t walk barefoot in public areas e.g. swimming pools, showers or gyms Our Foot Odour Products have just what you need to keep your feet and shoes feeling fresh every day.
Do you know what a fungal Nail infection looks like? The sneaky infection often doesn’t cause any pain but it often looks unsightly. Treat the infection early and you may be able to save your nails. But if it goes untreated, you risk losing your toenail. If that does happen it’s not the end of the world. Here’s how to catch it early, help your nails regrow healthier than ever and prevent infections again. What is a fungal nail infection A fungal nail infection is caused when fungi gets between the toenail and the nail bed, often through a crack or cut in your toenail. The fungi will cause the toenail to spread across that bit of tissue causing your toenail to turn yellow and crumble. 3 stages of fungal nail infection The nail plate is shiny and transparent, but a few yellow or white spots have begun to appear. The nail plate has lost its transparency and gloss. Yellowish spots occupy the entire surface. There’s partial destruction of the nail. The nail plate thickens and the nail starts to crumble. Regrowing healthy nails As soon as you spot fungal nail infection, it is recommended that an over-the-counter antifungal or fungistatic medication is used to stop it in its tracks. Medication has to be used regularly for it to be effective. It will aim to kill the fungi and to stop it returning. A medicated nail polish is a common method to use, but it will take a few months for the nail to grow out and be completely healthy. In extreme cases, oral medication may be prescribed by your pharmacist, podiatrist or GP. Topical medication (such as Scholl Fungal Nail Treatment 3.8ml) is for mild to moderate fungal nail infections. Use regularly and for the recommended time and the fungal nail infection should go away within 8-10 months. This seems like a long time, but this is how long it takes for your new healthy nail to grow back. Oral antifungal medication such as Terbinafine is used to treat severe fungal nail infection. It can take a long time to work and can have a number of side effects so you have to be monitored closely. Laser treatments are for “temporary increase of clear nail” but it’s not a cure. Cure rates for laser treatment are lower than topical medications so they are also not typically used as first-line treatments for nail fungus. How to avoid a fungal nail infection Fungal nail infections are highly contagious so can be picked up from other people and they like to grow in warm dark moist areas. So they are common in gym areas, pools and can be caught from other members of the family. If you have Athlete's Foot, it can also spread to your nails or from your own foot. Maintaining a good footcare routine and being mindful of your environments will help to keep fungi at leg length. To prevent getting infected: Keep your nails cut short and file down any thick areas. Use different nail tools when switching between healthy and infected nails. Bring your own equipment from home to the nail salon. Change your socks when they are damp from sweat or if your feet get wet. Put on clean, dry socks every day. Put over-the-counter antifungal foot powder or spray inside your socks and shoes to keep your feet dry. Wear shoes with good support and a wide toe area. Wear flip-flops in public areas, such as changing rooms. Products Fungal Nail Treatment
One of the easiest, and most relaxing things you can try is a ‘Spa Day’ at home. It doesn’t have to be a whole day, it can even be just an hour, but giving yourself a break from your daily schedule is like a stay-at-home holiday. Now, before you start, just try and make sure you don’t get any unexpected interruptions from cats, dogs, phones and family! Not easy, but possible with a little planning. Step 1 - Engage your senses Set the mood with a diffuser, candle or scented oil in warm water to create a luxurious spa ambience. Try eucalyptus for a classic spa scent. Now look for a relaxing playlist on Spotify, or your other favourite streaming site and get ready to unwind. Step 2 - Add the little extras Find your fluffiest towels and your best bath robe to keep you comfy. Why not try a rejuvenating spa-style drink to keep you hydrated? Line a jug of ice water with discs of lemon, orange and cucumber; it gets tastier the longer you leave it! Step 3 - Treat yourself Try a little facial massage and foot exfoliation before you bathe. Use a chilled jade roller to massage your face, neck and around your eyes, using the smaller roller at the other end. Then, exfoliate any dry skin on your feet with Scholl's Expert Care File & Smooth Foot File to keep your skin soft and smooth. Step 4 - Soak it up After treating yourself to a pamper session there's nothing more relaxing than a long spell in a hot tub. Make the experience more special with a homemade bath bomb using your favourite essential oils and flower petals. Step 5 - Finish with your feet After a good soak the best way to finish the hydration process is with one of our Foot Masks for dry skin hydration Wait 20 minutes, then remove the masks and massage in any remaining cream. Check out our Skincare range for everything you need for the ultimate pamper. Have a look through the rest of our Expert Care range to see all the different ways you can treat your feet! Now enjoy beautifully smooth, silky soft feet, for the perfect ending to your Spa Day!
To effectively treat foot odour, it’s best to understand where it all comes from. Sweaty feet - and the bacteria that feed on it - are one of the biggest causes of foot odour. Foot odour most commonly occurs from wearing poorly ventilated shoes or from shoes made of synthetic or non-leather materials. If you don’t wear socks or wear ones made of synthetic fabrics - like polyester or nylon - they’ll also contribute to sweating and the spread of bacteria. It is most common in young adult males. Some people will have a genetic predisposition to sweating - known as Hyperhidrosis - which means they produce a high level of sweat which would contribute to sweaty, smelly feet throughout the year, opposed to just in warmer conditions. 6 ways to prevent smelly feet Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet everyday with hot soapy water and ensure your toes are dried thoroughly. Wear shoes that are made of natural materials. Natural materials like leather and cotton are more breathable than synthetics. Wear socks made of wool, acrylic or polypropylene. These fabrics absorb sweat and keep moisture away from your skin. Change socks and shoes regularly. Fresh clean socks help to skin the dry and rotating shoes daily give each pair a chance to dry and air. Change your insoles regularly Bacteria and fungus thrive in moist insoles, aim to change them once a month. Air out your feet. When possible go barefoot, it’s the best way to allow your feet to breathe and dry out. Scholls solution to getting rid of foot odour Try foot deodorant sprays, like Scholl Scholl Fresh Step Shoe Spray 100g. Scholl Fresh Step Shoe Spray with a dual-active formula gives a 24 hour performance, with a specially developed Tri-Action formula that neutralises odour and reduces moisture. Suitable for all types of footwear and provides 24-hour protection against odour. You should contact a medical expert if: If this affects or disrupts your daily activities You are sweating more than usual.
Do you live an active lifestyle? Are you regularly going to the gym, swimming or running? Or do you spend a lot of time in trainers? If so, then you’re probably no stranger to the dreaded Athlete's foot, but fear not, your feet need not suffer in silence, we’ll show you a few simple tips and tricks that’ll keep athlete’s feet at bay. What is athlete's foot Athlete’s foot - or tinea pedis - is one of the most common fungal infections in adults. The fungus thrives in warm, dark and humid conditions, usually between the toes, and spreads resulting in an itching and burning sensation that can cause peeling and cracking of the skin. What causes athlete’s foot? Like most fungal infections, athlete’s foot is very contagious and can be spread through direct and indirect contact. This could be through contact with contaminated objects, like walking barefoot on wet floors in public places - changing rooms, showers or swimming pools - but can also spread through contaminated socks, shoes and damp towels. What triggers athlete’s foot? Humidity Wet, warm and sweaty feet are ideal conditions for fungi to live and multiply. Hygiene Athlete’s foot lives in and feeds on dead skin tissue. Be sure to wash your feet regularly and wear fresh clean socks and shoes to avoid any chance of re-infection Changes in pH The pH of skin has been shown to be higher in areas where two layers of skin meet and/or rub together - like your toes. As your skin's pH level rises, the body's natural barrier to infection may be damaged, which could make your skin more susceptible to infection. Damaged Skin The organisms that cause athlete's foot can spread more quickly on cornified and damaged skin - like cuts and grazes - allowing the fungi to attach and multiply. The 7 signs of athlete’s foot There are two common types of fungal athlete's foot - found between the toes and the soles of the feet - here are a few signs to look out for: Itchy, white patches between toes Increased thickness of the skin on the soles of your feet Red, sore and flaky patches of dry skin Varying degrees of itching and burning Cracking and peeling skin Bleeding Blisters How to treat athlete's foot There are many ways to simply and effectively treat athlete's foot. Scholl’s Athlete's Foot Cream contains a unique antifungal ingredient that is clinically proven to kill fungi and soothe itching in 7 days. Please note, in order to effectively treat the issue, it’s important to use the products for as long as directed. Your symptoms may disappear, but the fungus could still be present. Should any symptoms persist, please seek expert medical advice. To ensure you stop athlete’s foot in its tracks, try also using Scholl’s Antifungal Shoe Spray. This highly effective disinfectant antifungal shoe spray kills 99.9% of the fungus that causes athlete's foot and fungal nail infections. Continued use of Scholl’s Antifungal Shoe Spray will help maintain the hygiene of your shoes and prevent the recurrence of fungus. Top tips to avoid athlete's foot If you’re going to the gym or a swimming pool, wear flip flops in public areas. Dry your feet after washing them, particularly between the toes, dabbing them dry rather than rubbing them. Use a separate towel for your feet and wash it regularly. Walk barefoot, when possible, to allow your feet to breathe. Wear clean socks every day – breathable cotton socks are best. Avoid wearing tight shoes that make your feet hot and sweaty. Wear shoes made of natural materials - like leather and cotton - as they’re more breathable than synthetics. Don’t share towels, socks or shoes with other people. Don’t wear the same pair of shoes for more than two days in a row.
Step 1 - File First off, we need to clear away that hard skin. If the skin has hardened and lost its colour, no amount of moisturising will clear it. It’s best to exfoliate and remove the dry, hard skin and nourish the healthy skin underneath. Starting with dry feet - as wet feet can mask the affected areas - gently scrub the dry skin with a product like Scholl's Expert Care File & Smooth Foot File or our Scholl Callus File. Step 2 - Wash and Scrub We’ll then need to wash our feet to remove any of the dry skin. If possible, try and use an exfoliating scrub which could help lift and remove any dry and damaged skin. Step 3 - Rehydrate Finally, now that we’ve treated the dry skin, we need to rehydrate and nourish the newly exposed skin. To give your feet the best possible start, we’d recommend using our specially formulated Scholl ExpertCare PediMask™ Macadamia. Alternatively, you can also use a rich nourishing cream like our Eulactol Heel Balm Gold 60ml. That’s it! If you follow these three simple steps you’ll be on your way to softer, smoother skin! To learn more about our products or to get more expert advice on your feet visit our Foot Care Tips, Advice & Latest News page.
Stop as soon as you can feel pain! Early detection is key and it’s best to stop as soon as you can feel the slightest hotspot. The sooner it’s addressed, the better, even though when you are with a walking group it’s not always convenient to do so as it’s an unplanned stop. Cleanliness is key Remove your shoe and sock to find the source of the blister and gently wipe both your hands and the sore area clean with an antibacterial wipe. It’s most important to keep out dirt and bacteria. Don’t pop it Don’t be tempted to pop a blister. It’s not usually necessary (unless the blister is on the stressed part of the foot, such as the heel or ball of the foot) and the damaged, overlying skin encourages a cushion of fluid to fill the area underneath it which protects the more delicate skin. Keeping the blister intact also prevents it from infection. Use the right type of dressing Scholl blister plasters provide a hydrocolloid dressing containing a gel forming agent to protect the healing area from further friction. They are breathable, so allow air to get to the blister to aid recovery. They are also waterproof and prevent any unwanted sweat or water from getting into the wound. Dress your blister To dress it, you need to create a protective and durable layer between the foot and your shoe. The easiest way is to cover it with a proper blister plaster, such as the Scholl blister plaster, which is easy to apply and, so long as the affected area is clean and dry, can be left on for up to a week while it heals. Make sure the adhesive portion of the plaster is outside the blister itself. Infection As your blister heals, keep a watch out for redness or swelling. This may mean it has become infected and it should be seen by a doctor. The healing process Recovery from a blister may take one to two weeks to heal. With the right covering, it should be possible to maintain hiking activities though inevitably the cause of the injury should be eliminated. First aid kit So don’t get caught out! A blister plaster pack is an essential for your hiking first aid kit. Be prepared - even the most experienced walkers have had occasions when they have developed a blister and know how painful each step can be.
When your feet feel good, you feel good. Which is why it’s so important to have smooth, healthy skin. Your skin is like a shield, but when dry skin and cracks begin to appear it can’t do its job properly. What are cracked heels? Cracks begin when tiny splits occur in dry, damaged skin. At first, your heel may feel tight when you’re standing for long periods. The next signs are often intense dryness, itching and tenderness. Finally, your skin may turn yellow or brown and feel hard to the touch. Cracked heels may seem like nothing more than a nuisance, but over time they can become more and more painful until it hurts just to walk. In advanced stages heels may be so dry that they turn white, yellowish and begin to flake. Cracks can deepen and may even bleed and become infected with bacteria. What causes cracked heels? At its simplest, dry skin causes cracked heels. Dehydration is one of the biggest causes of cracked skin. Once moisture is lost your feet start to produce thick areas of rough skin as a form of protection. Other factors include: Obesity, diabetes, and hypothyroidism Chronic skin conditions like psoriasis Dry indoor heating or exposure to cold weather Problems with pronation of the foot Luckily, with over 100 years of foot care experience, we have just the products you need to treat cracked heels and dry skin. Moisturise and File Thankfully, it’s relatively easy to help cracked heels and dry skin - and the results can be quite quick. The first step is to moisturise them with Scholl’s Eulactol Heel Balm. This clinically proven cream moisturises the skin and provides 'active' skin repair for rough, dry cracked heels. It provides fast-acting skin repair to help visibly improve the appearance of rough, dry and cracked heels in as quickly as 1 day.Once all visible cracks are gone, it’s time to start your filing routine. Regularly using the Scholl 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File will remove dry, hard or even rough skin and buff it smooth - leaving your heels and feet feeling soft.And once you’ve got your heels back to feeling and looking good it’s easy to keep them that way. Simple tips to keep your heels healthy Once you’ve restored your heels with Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm, stop them from getting dry again by regularly moisturising. File your feet regularly to remove hard, dead skin using 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes. Say goodbye to cracked heels and Feel Foot-tastic™ So, as you can see there’s no need to suffer from cracked heels and dry skin. Using our Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm and 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File, you could be enjoying soft smooth heels in days. All ready for you to show off this summer. If you have Diabetes and cracked heels, Eulactol Heel Balm Gold is safe for use.Feel Foot-tastic™ with our Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm and 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File. Products Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm Gold Scholl ExpertCare File and Smooth 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File System
There’s a variety of different foot files with which you can choose to work. Metal foot files literally ‘grate’ the calluses off the bottom or side of your foot. They need to be used quite lightly to prevent injury so be careful not to use too much pressure. Sandpaper foot files are made from emery paper. They are not as durable as metal files and are used for minor or dead skin removal. The two types can be used together with a metal file first followed by a softer sandpaper foot file to give the skin a smooth feel. Scholl ExpertCare File and Smooth 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File System A third, very efficient, option is an electronic version such as the Scholl ExpertCare File and Smooth 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File System which has both coarse and smooth exfoliators. Through a quick flip of the handle, it embraces the removal of tough, hard skin on one side with a softer treatment for smaller calluses and finishing off on the other side. Eliminating hard skin Make sure feet are clean. Using a coarse file, first begin to work on the dead skin areas. These are usually around the back and bottom of the heel or to each side of the toes. Avoid irritated or broken skin to prevent further damaging it. Rinse away the filed off dead skin with a damp sponge or flannel and water. Continue buffing with a less abrasive file which will leave the treated area soft and smooth. Dry your feet with a towel to reveal soft, healthy skin. Cleanliness Feet harbour bacteria easily so it is especially important to remember to wash your feet first and clean the pedi or pedi devices you have used afterwards. Some pedi devices have refills so you can change them after each session and simply throw away the used ones. The health benefits of regular filing Frequent scrubbing and filing of your feet can promote blood circulation. Not only do your feet become more healthy but you may feel more relaxed and rejuvenated. Dead skin, if left on the foot, can trap dirt and bacteria which can lead to dangerous fungal infections. Regularly scraping off dead skin keeps your feet germ free. Quick and easy It takes just a few minutes to file your feet and the technique is simple to learn. Adding a home pedicure in to your weekly care routine could save you a lot of discomfort! After filing, finish with a daily treatment foot cream which will stop hard skin and calluses re-emerging and keep the skin protected. Products: ExpertCare File and Smooth 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File System