Putting toothpaste on your feet might sound like an internet trend or DIY hack — and while it’s not a medically recommended treatment for most foot issues, it’s popular in viral home remedy circles for a few reasons. Let’s break down the claims, potential benefits, risks, and tips, so you can decide if it’s worth trying (and really saving money).
CLAIMED BENEFITS OF TOOTHPASTE ON FEET
Toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda, menthol, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils, which are thought to help in the following ways:
1. Odor Control
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Menthol and baking soda neutralize odor-causing bacteria.
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Some say it helps keep feet fresh without needing foot sprays or powders.
2. Skin Softening & Exfoliation
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Toothpaste with baking soda or peroxide may remove dead skin or calluses.
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Could reduce rough heels temporarily.
3. Fungus and Itch Relief (Athlete’s Foot)
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Mint toothpaste may cool itchy skin.
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Antibacterial ingredients might help mildly with fungal or bacterial irritations.
4. Crack-Heel or Dry Skin Treatment (claimed)
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Some people mix toothpaste with vaseline or coconut oil and use it like a foot cream.
5. Insect Bite or Minor Burn Relief
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Toothpaste has a cooling effect that can reduce itching from bug bites or minor irritation.
HOW TO USE IT (IF YOU WANT TO TRY)
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Choose the Right Type: Use a white, non-gel, fluoride-free toothpaste (preferably one with baking soda or menthol).
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Wash your feet: Clean your feet before applying.
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Apply thinly: Rub a small amount of toothpaste over the soles, heels, or dry areas.
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Wait 10–15 minutes: Let it sit. You may feel a cooling sensation.
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Rinse off: Use warm water. Moisturize afterward with a lotion.
✅ Optional: Mix with salt or sugar for a DIY foot scrub.
⚠️ WARNINGS & RISKS
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Irritation: Toothpaste is not meant for skin; some people may react badly (redness, burning).
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Allergies: Fragrances and fluoride can trigger allergies or dermatitis.
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Drying effect: Long-term use may over-dry or damage sensitive skin.
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Not a cure: Won’t replace proper treatment for athlete’s foot, warts, or infections.
💰 “I Won’t Spend Any More Money” Angle
If you’re out of budget for foot creams, deodorants, or scrubs, toothpaste might provide temporary relief or maintenance. But it’s not a long-term or reliable solution for serious skin or fungal issues.
Better budget alternatives:
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Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) – softens heels.
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Baking soda & water – odor + exfoliation.
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Coconut oil – hydration + mild antifungal.
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Apple cider vinegar soaks – for fungus and odor.