Researchers from Thailand recently developed an effective coating for smelly feet. Those with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NP)coated sockswere tested under real-world conditions by scientists at Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University in Thailand. The experiment showed that such a combination is effective not only against foot odor, but also against bacterial infections.
New remedy for smelly feet in development
Foot odor is an embarrassing condition that negatively impacts the quality of life. However, researchers at the Royal Thai Airforce developed a solution through socks initially intended for military personnel. But they then found that the antibacterial effectiveness of ZnO NPs, together with their safety and compatibility with human skin, made them the perfect combination for textiles, including socks. The results therefore demonstrate the effectiveness of socks coated with zinc oxide through nanoparticles in preventing bromodose and inhibiting the development of keratolysis. These are bacterial infections that cause smelly feet. So this type of treatment could represent a new primary prevention option for both military personnel and those vulnerable to these embarrassing and unpleasant conditions.
For the results, the double-blind, randomized, controlled study was conducted with 148 cadets at the Thai Naval Rating School. The study showed that socks coated with zinc oxide nanoparticles had significantly less foot odor compared to baseline. This was compared to the uncoated socks group. They noticed a more intense foot odor with a greater negative impact on their daily life. They also found that participants wearing uncoated socks were more likely to develop pitting keratolysis than participants wearing ZnO NP-coated socks.
Simple solution to foot odor
During his internship as a naval officer in the medical department, the study author noticed a high number of foot infections among military personnel. He therefore wanted to find a way to prevent and treat these fungal and bacterial infections and the diseases associated with them. Previous studies had already shown the antibacterial properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles, so the research team wanted to test the effectiveness of such a new technology in practice.
The study authors will continue research with other textiles. They hope that this will allow them to treat and prevent the growth of bacterial and fungal infections in the future.The Studywas presented at the virtual conference “29. Congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV)”.
