10 Best Foot Deodorants in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed By Dermatologist

When naturally-occurring bacteria in our feet come into contact with our sweat, the waste products produced by these microbes give off a foul odor, also known as bromodosis. This may be the reason why most people who live in hot and humid areas suffer from sweaty and smelly feet.

However, teenagers and pregnant women are more susceptible to having odorous feet due to the hormonal changes that they're are experiencing. Additionally, people who are obese or those who have an existing medical condition such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and anxiety are more prone to having smelly feet.

Moreover, those who wear closed and tight shoes or people who are on their feet all day can also suffer from bromodosis. Lastly, improper foot hygiene can cause bad smells to surface from your feet.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Check the ingredients that can keep your feet odor-free. 
2. Try to select foot deodorants with minimal ingredients if you have sensitive skin. 
3. Select the type of foot deodorant based on your lifestyle.
4. If you have an existing skin condition, consult a dermatologist. 

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below. 

Before purchasing a foot deodorant, take a look at the ingredients. Your foot deo should keep your feet sweat and odor-free but still be safe to use. Here are some ingredients to look out for and the ones to avoid.

Potassium alum can also be pertained to as alum, potash alum, soda alum, aluminum alum, or ammonium alum. This mineral salt is more commonly known as tawas in Filipino, is a natural foot deodorant, best for people who have sensitive skin. Not only that, foot deodorants that have potassium alum as the primary ingredient are usually affordable.  

This anti-microbial mineral, not to be confused with aluminum, does not pose great harm to the skin and feet. Along with zinc oxide, magnesium carbonate, and magnesium silicate or talc, they target odor-causing bacteria to eliminate the unpleasant odor. They are safer alternatives to toxic ingredients such as aluminum compounds and alcohol, which can be found in most foot deodorants. 

Manufacturers incorporate essential oils into foot deodorants for a couple of reasons. First, tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which keep your feet odor-free. On the other hand, both lavender and peppermint extracts give you that refreshing feeling. Last but not least, aloe vera is oftentimes added due to its moisturizing properties.

Besides the previously mentioned benefits, these extracts may also provide a sweet smell that masks foot odor. If you’re looking for more unique fragrances for your foot deodorant, Angat Pinoy has a banana-scented one, while Burlington has a foot spray with a citrusy lime scent. 

Ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, triclosan, alcohol, and aluminum are common among cosmetic products. They are not necessarily harmful as long as the amount is kept to a minimum and are naturally-sourced. Nevertheless, those with sensitive skin may opt for foot deodorants containing minimal ingredients or fragrance-free ones to avoid irritating their skin.

Now that we’ve listed down a few ingredients to take note of before purchasing this item, let’s now go through the different types of foot deodorants. This may depend on your lifestyle, whether you’re an active person or one who likes to stay inside the house.

For people who are always on-the-go or have limited preparation time, a foot deodorant spray may be the best choice for you. This type of foot deodorant dries quickly and feels cool on the skin, ideal for hot days. Use it for a quick touch-up to keep the sweat and smell at bay, any time of the day!

If you have the luxury of time, foot powders are a good option. This is because you need to completely dry your feet after showering before applying them. Most foot deodorant powders offer whole-day protection, so sweaty and smelly feet will be the least of your worries! We also recommend this type of foot deo for people who sweat a lot for the same reason. 

If you have an existing skin or health condition or just want to be sure regarding which variant and brand is most compatible with you, it’s best to consult your dermatologist first before getting a foot powder. That’s because some ingredients may clash with the medicines that you’re currently taking or may even cause skin irritation. 

Additionally, a doctor's product prescription according to the diagnosis must be followed accordingly to get the best results. You can also guarantee that the recommended foot deodorant is safe and effective as they have passed the standards of experts and healthcare professionals. 

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.

Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.

**Prices may vary depending on the website and their campaign period**

If you’ve tried everything yet you still can’t get rid of that pungent smell, don’t lose hope! US-based podiatrist Dr. Shobowale shares some tips on how you can eliminate foot odor at home. Click on the video or check out our summary below.

Spray both the inside and outside of your shoes with a sanitizing spray after every use. If you don’t have a sanitizing spray at home, let your shoes air dry outside the house. Make sure to lift the tongue of your shoes to let the air circulate. As we say in Tagalog, para sumingaw ang amoy.

It is preferable to wear breathable socks, particularly those that are made of cotton, especially when you wear closed shoes often. If you don’t have cotton socks, you can take off your shoes in between study or work breaks to let your feet breathe whenever the time and setting permits.

The number one rule is to never reuse your socks since dead skin cells and sweat can accumulate, which leads to that funky smell. As much as possible, alternate between 2 or more pairs of shoes. However, if you only have one pair, make sure to deodorize them daily. This can be done by putting a newspaper or a mesh bag that contains baking soda or lemon inside and leaving them overnight.

Soak your feet in warm water with your favorite essential oil, 1 to 2 lemons, or black tea for 10 minutes. Then, pat dry and moisturize with olive oil since it's also a natural anti-fungal. However, if you have diabetes, blood flow issues, or neuropathy, consult your doctor before doing this.

After showering and moisturizing your feet, you may now apply deodorant. Make sure to spread it evenly and thoroughly enough to cover your feet especially in between your toes and at the bottom of your feet to keep your feet sweat and odor-free. 

Having smelly feet is definitely bothersome but can be treated with appropriate measures in cleaning and maintaining them. If they are recurring, it is best to consult an expert like Dr. Gaile Vitas, who will answer a few questions regarding this dilemma. 

Not necessarily, as smelly feet are often a consequence of sweat mixing with bacteria, which can be addressed by properly cleaning your feet and using antiperspirants. If the smell, however, is persistent and is accompanied by skin and/or nail lesions, then it could be a sign of something more serious, such as a fungal or bacterial infection.

Yes. If one is able to correctly identify the causes of your smelly feet and they are eliminated, controlled, or addressed appropriately, individuals with smelly feet are able to resolve this problem and maintain smell-free and sweat-free feet for long periods of time.

If none of these over-the-counter products and simple solutions work, it is always best to consult an expert who can help identify the possible causes of your foot odor, assess your feet properly and give appropriate management and treatment recommendations. One example of an expert would be a board-certified dermatologist.

Just like the rest of your body, your feet need some TLC too! Alongside your chosen foot deodorant, show them some more love by investing in foot care essentials such as foot powders, foot massage tools, foot creams, and callus removers. Check out our recommendations below!

Foot deodorants keep your feet sweat and odor-free throughout the day. You can choose among the best products from our top 10, while the buying guide serves as a reference as to what factors to take note of when looking for a foot deodorant. Purchase one now and get ready to say goodbye to dyahe moments!

Author: Aprille Jarcia

Re-editor: Patricia Catimpo

Reviewed by: Dermatologist, Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas

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