Nail & Skin Care for Warmer Weather: A Podiatrist’s Guide
As temperatures rise, your feet face new challenges—here’s how to keep them healthy, clean, and ready.
Warm weather brings sandals, sweat, and more time on your feet. It also brings increased exposure to heat, humidity, and friction; factors that can dry out skin, cause fungal infections, or lead to thickened nails and cracked heels if left unchecked.
We often see an uptick in foot skin and nail concerns around this time of year such as peeling soles, discoloured nails, or painful skin around the nail edge. The good news is, a few targeted habits (and the right products) can go a long way toward keeping your feet in good condition as the season changes.
6 Warm-Weather Footcare Tips from the Clinic
1. Don’t skip daily moisturising.
Even though winter dryness fades, your feet still lose moisture in warm, open-air conditions. UV exposure, friction from sandals, and sweat can all weaken the skin barrier. Keep up daily hydration with a light but effective urea-based cream. Hydra20 (20% Urea Heel Balm) is non-greasy and ideal for daily use during warmer months, especially after showers or beach days. For tougher spots, Urebalm25 Pump offers a quick, no-mess option.
2. Keep nails short and clean.
Trimming toenails straight across helps prevent painful ingrown nails, which can flare up in closed-toe shoes or sweaty conditions. Always use clean, sharp tools, and avoid digging into corners. After trimming, apply a light moisturiser around the nail edge to soften the skin.
3. Watch for signs of fungal infection.
Heat and humidity make a perfect environment for fungal overgrowth. Peeling soles, itchy skin between toes, or thick, discoloured nails can all be early signs. Use a gentle, anti-fungal foot spray or powder if you're prone to tinea, and avoid walking barefoot in shared spaces like pools or gyms.
4. Let your feet breathe—but with support.
Sandals and thongs might feel freeing, but too much exposure can lead to cracked heels, sun damage, or strain. If you’re wearing open footwear often, consider using Podi Poron Heel Pads inside your shoes or sandals for added heel protection and comfort.
5. Exfoliate gently once a week.
With more skin exposed, calluses and dry patches become more noticeable. Soak feet in warm water, gently exfoliate with a pumice stone, and follow with a moisturising cream. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, especially if you have sensitive or diabetic skin.
6. Protect your socks and shoes.
Warmer weather means more sweat, which can affect both skin and nail health. Wear moisture-wicking socks—like Soles Diabetic Socks, which offer breathability, arch support, and reduced friction. Also allow your shoes to dry fully between uses, and rotate pairs if possible.
When to Get Help
If you notice nail changes (discoloration, thickening, or pain), stubborn cracks, or recurring irritation, it’s worth seeing a podiatrist. Early treatment prevents minor issues from becoming more serious, especially for people with diabetes or sensitive skin.
Healthy nails and skin are easier to maintain than repair. That’s why prevention is key. Keep things simple: moisturise regularly to keep skin soft and resilient, trim toenails properly to avoid discomfort, and stay mindful of moisture and hygiene, especially in warmer weather when sweat and friction increase. Choosing breathable socks and supportive footwear can also go a long way in protecting your feet from common seasonal issues. A few small steps, done consistently, can help your feet stay comfortable, strong, and ready for the months ahead.