Flip flops protect us from high temperatures and fungal growth. But is it a healthy choice?
Flip-flops are worn at any time of the day – city walks, country trips, beach trips. However, they are not as innocent as we think. If some basic rules are not followed, they can cause skin and nail infections.
“Flip-flops are a must-have summer shoe style. We all know that protection from microorganisms growing near the water, on the sand, in swimming pools and in communal changing rooms and gym showers. However, they are not completely safe. They expose the feet to all kinds of dirt, bacteria and fungi that, if they find the right conditions, i.e. heat and humidity, can cause serious infections that require a lot of time, patience and perseverance to fight off.” Dermatologist warns – Venereologist dr Christos Stamou.
Two New York Daily News reporters wore brand new rubber flip flops to Coney Island, Prospect Park and the subway for less than a week to see what they could get stuck into while wearing flip flops.
It turned out that collected about 14,000 species of bacteria, including staphylococcus. Also, studies have found that most flip-flops are contaminated with bacteria from faeces, e.g E. coli (Colobacter).
The material from which they are made is the number 1 reason for the growth of microorganisms. Although they allow the upper part of the foot to be exposed to the air, reducing the temperature and evaporating any accumulated moisture, some materials that cause overheating and sweating, two conditions necessary for fungi to reproduce.
For this reason, flip-flops made of plastic or synthetic material should be avoided and replaced with ones made of natural materials. leather or natural rubber (there is also synthetic). When conditions allow, it is better to use slippers cloth, e.g. inside the house.
Flip-flops: risk of staphylococcus and even … cancer
In addition, what is done plastic they often contain harmful substances that can cause skin irritation (e.g. latex) and even cancer (bisphenol-A (BPA)).
The more the part of the skin in contact with them, the greater the risk.
A characteristic feature that flip flops develop fungi and bacteria it’s their bad smell. It is the most common bacteria that causes bad breath Staphylococci of the skin (Staphylococcus epidermidis), Micrococcus sedentarius, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. The latter smells musty.
These microorganisms enter the skin micro cracks they are easy to create as the legs have no protection.
What is “athlete’s foot” and how is it treated?
The most common is a fungal infection dermatophytosis of the heels (Tinea pedis), better known “Athlete’s foot”. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, and depending on where it infects the skin, symptoms appear on the bottom of the feet and around the nails.
However, mostly fungal infection skin occurs between the toes and most commonly between the fourth and fifth toes. The infection causes changes in the color and texture of the skin, including cracking and peeling, itching and burning.
When the heels are infected, patients begin to feel pain, and after a few days the skin thickens and cracks. In rare cases, it can be caused by fungus fluid blisters, ulcers everywhere and rarely. Of course, fungal infections of the feet can also spread to the hands.
Diagnosis and treatment
Fungi on the skin and toenails are diagnosed first by dermatologist through clinical examination.
“Treatment can be topical – creams, ointments, lotions, powders, etc. We have several medicines in the form of There are cases when, due to possible side effects, it is required to take the drugs orally, always under the supervision of a doctor. the expert explains and adds:
“Laser application for onychomycosis in recent years has revolutionized it because it heals faster and the patient recovers without the risk of any side effects of drugs. It can be combined with topical or oral treatment, or even with phototherapy.”emphasizes.
Fungal infections of the feet from dermatophytes they do not pose a threat to life, they can disturb immunocompromised patients.
Proper hygiene
So, in the summer, in order not to get dirty, you should wear flip-flops made of natural materials, not for many hours or days but can be exchanged with others. Their design should allow ventilation of the sole (not those with raised edges and deeper bottoms).
“Flip-flops should be washed daily soap and water, pay attention to small tears and where the straps connect to the base of the flip flop and allow it to dry completely before putting it back on. If fungi have developed, it is preferable to replace them or, if this is not possible, to apply a spray that stops the growth of microbes. It should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated place. Dr. Stamou concludes.