In the summer, many people prefer to go barefoot in their shoes, but according to Lu Tao, a dermatologist at the Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Armed Police Medical College, this habit can actually pose several health risks. He has identified five key dangers associated with wearing shoes without socks.
Firstly, going barefoot increases the risk of injury and infection. Exposing your feet directly to the environment makes them more vulnerable to bumps, insect bites, and blisters from prolonged walking. Additionally, bacteria in the air can easily attach to your skin, especially if there are any cuts or wounds, which may lead to infections.
Secondly, direct exposure to sunlight can harm your skin. The UV rays from the sun generate harmful free radicals that damage skin cells, accelerate melanin production, and cause pigmentation, roughness, and loss of elasticity. Studies show that the soles of the feet, when exposed through barefoot shoes, are at higher risk for skin cancer due to prolonged sun exposure.
Thirdly, this practice can lead to skin thickening and conditions like calluses or corns. Constant friction between your feet and shoes causes the skin on heels, toes, and other areas to become thicker over time. This not only makes the skin uncomfortable but also increases the chances of developing painful sores. Moreover, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to materials like leather or rubber, leading to contact dermatitis, characterized by redness, rashes, and blisters.
Fourthly, wearing shoes without socks increases the likelihood of fungal infections. Feet tend to sweat more in hot weather, and without socks, the moisture can remain trapped inside the shoes. This creates a warm and humid environment ideal for fungi to grow, increasing the risk of athlete's foot or other fungal infections.
Lastly, going barefoot can lead to cold-related foot problems. The soles of the feet have a thin fat layer and poor blood circulation, making them prone to getting cold easily. When feet get cold, it can trigger a reflexive constriction of blood vessels in the upper respiratory tract, lowering resistance to airborne pathogens and increasing susceptibility to illnesses like colds. In rainy weather, bare feet can also cause stomachaches, lower back pain, and even worsen menstrual cramps in women.
Lu Tao recommends that people take better care of their feet during the summer. It’s best to avoid going barefoot in shoes and instead wear socks, which act as a protective layer that absorbs sweat and prevents friction. Opt for thin cotton socks in hot weather, and consider using insoles made of breathable materials to keep your feet dry and comfortable. If you suffer from contact dermatitis, avoid allergens and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms persist.
If you're looking for creative ways to reuse old shoes, check out these tips: transforming big spikes, repurposing old shoes instead of throwing them away, adding physical protection to your footwear, learning how to clean matte shoe surfaces, choosing breathable and antibacterial socks to prevent bad odors, discovering the hidden functions of sports shoe heels, understanding the sounds of high-heeled shoes, knowing how to choose proper shoes during pregnancy, dealing with moldy shoes, and being aware of the dangers of certain summer footwear.
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