Listerine Foot Soak - Benefits and Contraindications

What Is Listerine?

A well-known mouthwash that aids in preventing cavities and gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) is Listerine. The contents of Listerine help in the process of getting rid of calluses (a region of thickened and occasionally stiffened skin that develops as a reaction to continuous friction or pressure), dead skin, and foot fungus. It includes:

• Salicylic acid and methyl salicylate share chemical similarities. Many face cleansers and acne solutions contain salicylic acid as an exfoliator.

• Benzoic acid inhibits the development of microorganisms.

• The antifungal qualities of thymol, menthol, and eucalyptol may benefit those suffering from athlete's foot (a fungal infection that causes dry and scaly skin on the sides and bottom of the foot) and a fungal infection of the toes.

What Exactly Is a Listerine Foot Soak?

Listerine foot soak is a foot bath that can be done at home. A Listerine foot soak involves soaking feet in a solution of an equal quantity of water and Listerine for a predetermined period, typically between 45 and 60 minutes. Proponents assert the mixture has chilling or relaxing, antifungal, and antibacterial qualities.

Is a Listerine Foot Soak Effective?

Over time, the skin's topmost layer normally sheds. Dry skin, on the other hand, flakes off more slowly because it becomes encased. Parts of the feet may get dry and cracked when this happens.

Dry skin can occasionally be piled on top of calluses since skin tends to be driest in regions where it encounters an excessive amount of rubbing from footwear and walking. This may result in a very unattractive appearance. In severe circumstances, it might even render donning footwear bothersome since it will rub against calluses and dry skin.

Salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliator, decreases the buildup of dry skin and takes care of issues like blackheads and pimples by assisting the skin in shedding its topmost layer more quickly.

Chemically, methyl salicylate, present in Listerine mouthwash, is comparable. It has comparable exfoliating qualities as a result.

Despite a lack of scientific studies, anecdotal data from other sources indicates that Listerine exfoliants produce positive user outcomes. Listerine might be an excellent choice for those who have dry, flaking, strong foot skin on a long-term basis. It might provide an improved and more useful substitute for exfoliants, pumice stones, and moisturizers. Listerine ought to be safe for use on the foot for those who can use it in their mouths without experiencing any allergies or other negative side effects.

What Are the Steps Involved in Listerine Foot Soak?

The following are detailed instructions for soaking the feet with Listerine:

• Look for a tub that accommodates the feet's depth and length. A foot spa is ideal, but any deep tub will do.

• Pour two parts warm water into the tub and add Listerine. Sufficient to surround the feet.

• One can also stir in equal parts white vinegar in place of the water. Because of its strong acidity, this kind of vinegar is believed to be fungus-killing.

• For 45 to 60 minutes, immerse the feet in the solution.

Like prescribed antifungal medications, the full disappearance of the fungus may take several months. On the other hand, some people may immediately observe improvements.

What Are the Benefits of Listerine Foot Soak?

The benefits of Listerine foot soak are as follows:

• Eliminates Fungal and Bacterial Infections: According to a study, Listerine mouthwash possesses antibacterial qualities that lower the chance of bacterial infections. Additionally, menthol has a robust antifungal effect that may help avoid toenail fungus, such as athlete's foot.

• Combats Muscular Pain: Warm water tends to stretch the muscular fibers, which is one reason people with sore muscles may find comfort in immersing their feet in a Listerine solution. Listerine's menthol also has a calming effect on muscles.

• Purifies the Feet: Using a Listerine foot bath helps remove debris, soften dry skin, and remove dead skin layers.

• Eliminates Foot Odor: Odd foot odor can result from perspiration, excessive sock wear, microbial diseases, and infrequent foot cleaning. This undesirable smell can be eliminated with a Listerine foot soak.

• Listerine May help Plantar Wart Removal: Because of its antifungal qualities, some use Listerine to remove plantar warts. It is said that soaking the afflicted area in Listerine without diluting it for 15 to 20 minutes every day would eradicate the warts in a matter of weeks. These results last long, even in the most difficult plantar wart situations. These assertions, however, are sporadic and unsupported by concrete evidence. Consider seeking medical advice from a physician before attempting home treatments if one has significant plantar warts.

To Whom Should Listerine Foot Soaks Be Avoided?

Any part of the body may be affected by the burning feeling that Listerine mouthwashes provide.

Listerine foot soaks should not be used on individuals who have sensitive skin or fresh wounds because they can hurt their skin and produce a burning feeling. People shouldn't soak their feet with Listerine if they:

• Previous experience of adverse responses to any of the active components in Listerine.

• Open wounds on the feet, such as cuts, blisters, or cracked, dry skin.

• If individuals have highly reactive skin or have previous adverse reactions to foot soaks, avoid using them.

• An Aspirin allergy because methyl salicylate and Aspirin share nearly all of their chemical constituents.

• Very young kids. Reye Syndrome, a condition that can be fatal in children, is associated with the usage of Aspirin and various salicylates.

• Sensitivity to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).

An active illness or redness cannot be treated with a Listerine foot soak. Unless instructed otherwise by a physician, avoid using a Listerine foot soak when the skin condition is oedematous (swelling) and shows signs of infection or bleeding. A foot bath is not a prescription. Injuries that cause pain should be treated by a physician rather than a foot soak.

Conclusion:

As a potential treatment for fungal infections of the feet, including athlete's foot, Listerine foot soaks have gained popularity. Although the efficacy of this method has not been scientifically proven, Listerine does include four antibacterial essential oils that may be useful in the fight against fungus.