MAKE THE FOOTWEAR FIT FOR THE FESTIVAL

  

  

 

Diwali is around the corner, many of you might have completed shopping and are ready for the day with a new set of dresses, and accessories.

One of the new things will be a pair of new chappals that are meant to be worn with the new dress while you go out to meet friends and relatives or simply while lighting crackers.  

The first thing to do is: Yes, you should be giving your chappals a little clean before you wear them. Studies have found that shoes can contain up to 10 billion bacteria which is no surprise when you consider the amount of people trying them out on the shop floor.

This also will help you to defend yourselves from new chappal bite.

 Chappal bites result from continuous rubbing of it against the skin. New ones that have not been broken in (molding to the contour of the feet) or footwear that does not fit properly create friction and high-pressure points on the feet, causing skin irritation and blisters.

It's not unusual to experience blisters and bites when you first try on a pair of new footwear, especially if they've been in storage for a long time. New chappals are prone to blisters and shoe bites since the material hasn't settled, and they're still relatively new.

If friction is the issue, then you can lessen the conflict between your shoes and your feet by moisturising your skin, or by giving your feet a pamper with some petroleum jelly.

 The most common symptom of a shoe bite is pain in the affected area. This can range from a mild ache to severe discomfort, depending on the size and location of the blister. Other symptoms may include redness, swelling, and warmth to the touch. In some cases, shoe bites can also lead to infections.

The majority of friction blisters heal on their own within 1–2 weeks. However, a few simple steps can help reduce discomfort and minimize the likelihood of the blister becoming infected.

Here are some ways to prevent slipper bites:

Wear socks

Socks can reduce friction and act as a cushion between your feet and the slippers. Choose moisture-wicking socks made from cotton or bamboo to keep your feet dry. 

Use foot powder

Foot powder can help keep your feet dry and reduce friction between your skin and the slippers. 

Apply coconut oil

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory. You can apply it to your feet before wearing slippers to prevent marks from spreading. If you have sensitive skin, you can also apply it to the inside of your shoes. 

Applying a layer of coconut oil to your feet before wearing them can prevent them from spreading. If you have sensitive skin, apply coconut oil to the inside of your shoes to help prevent these marks. If your slippers do cause you discomfort, consider using more comfortable slippers.

 Break in your shoes

Wear your shoes for short periods before wearing them for longer periods. You can also wear them around the house in the evening if they are just a little uncomfortable. 

Use toe protectors

Toe protectors or toe caps can cushion your toes and prevent friction. 

Insert shoe pads or insoles

Shoe pads or insoles can help prevent abrasion in areas like your heels. 

Apply petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly can create a protective layer on the affected area, soothe pain, and numb the skin.   Apply a little vaseline petroleum jelly on the shoes in the spots which can give a shoe bite like the outer lining above the heels and the toes. This also helps soften the leather.

Apply honey

Honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help wound healing. You can apply natural honey to a shoe bite wound to cure it and moisturize the skin. 

If you do get a shoe bite, you should give your feet some rest and avoid activities that put more strain on the affected area.

 

If by chance you are affected with bites despite the preventive methods carried out by you, here are some remedies for chappal bites, also known as shoe bites:

Coconut oil

Contains antibacterial properties that can help heal shoe bites 

Aloe vera

Apply the gel from the aloe vera plant to the affected area for quick relief 

Honey

Apply a thin layer of honey to the area and cover with a bandage to soothe pain and prevent infection 

Ice

Wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth and place on the bite for instant relief and to reduce swelling 

Elevate your feet

Keep your feet elevated while resting to reduce swelling and promote healing 

Stretch your shoes

Use shoe stretchers to widen areas of your shoes that are causing friction 

Clean and bandage

If there is a blister or open wound, clean it with mild soap and water, apply an antiseptic cream or ointment, and cover with a bandage 

Take painkillers

Take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation 

Rest

Give your feet enough rest and avoid wearing shoes that cause further friction 

So be prepared to celebrate Diwali with all the things in good form including your chappals, sandals, shoes, or slippers.