Cool weather is a welcome relief after days of being drenched in sweat after a quick dash to the mailbox, but lower temperatures are not necessarily kind to our skin. As the humidity drops, our skin loses moisture and before we know it, we’re relying on generous amounts of lotion to soothe our dry, cracking hands. Although our feet aren’t directly exposed to the uncomfortably frigid weather, being buried in socks for several months leaves them looking a bit parched as well. Podiatrist Eric Reynolds, DPM, of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in Washington, D.C. could recommend dozens of prescription medications to make your peeling feet pretty again, but he let WebMD in on a little secret–mouthwash works just as well!
How to treat your feet with Listerine antiseptic mouthwash:
There’s a lot to love about this home remedy, but the fact that it has something of a spa-day feel is one of our favorite factors. Applying ointment to your feet isn’t fun (just the word ointment makes us cringe), but soaking them automatically adds a soothing element to the experience.
Step 1: Pour Listerine and water into a wash basin. There should be twice as much water as there is mouthwash. The Listerine will soften your rough skin.
Step 2: Submerge your feet in this mixture, and allow them to soak for 15-20 minutes. Remember, use this time as an excuse to relax. Grab that magazine or book that’s been calling your name and read a few pages as the mouthwash works its magic.
Step 3: Once you’ve dried your feet, it’s time to moisturize. It’s perfectly fine to purchase a moisturizer of your choice or utilize one you already have; however, it needs to have a hydrating urea component to its formula. Dr. Reynolds recommends Eucerin Plus Intensive Repair Foot Creme.
This is a once-a-week treatment, but you can do it twice a week if your feet need it. Because Listerine is a strong antiseptic, it doesn’t only help restore the quality of your skin, it prevents and fights fungus as well!