Lemon Juice? Baking Soda? TikTok Trends Won’t Fix Your Feet!

TikTok is full of “life hacks,” and foot care is no exception. From seemingly miraculous cures for toenail fungus to DIY callus removal techniques, your “For You” page might be overflowing with foot-related “advice.” But before you soak your feet in lemon juice or attack a callus with a cheese grater (yes, we’ve seen it!), let’s separate the helpful hints from the harmful hoaxes. Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute is here to give you the real deal on TikTok foot trends in the blog below!

1. The Trend: Lemon Juice for Toenail Fungus

  • The Claim: Applying lemon juice to fungal nails will kill the fungus and restore a healthy appearance.
  • The Reality: While lemon juice has some mild antifungal properties due to its acidity, it’s not strong enough to penetrate the nail and eradicate a fungal infection. It can also irritate the surrounding skin.
  • Podiatrist-Approved Alternative: A combination of laser therapy, topical nail polish, and UV light sanitation for your shoes can work well. We often follow up on this by recommending the use of moisturizing skin cream to restore and prevent reinfection.

2. The Trend: Aggressive Callus Removal (Cheese Graters, Razors, etc.)

  • The Claim: Using sharp tools like cheese graters, razors, or even pumice stones aggressively to remove thick calluses.
  • The Reality: This is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injury, cuts, and infections, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
  • Podiatrist-Approved Alternative: Gentle exfoliation with a pumice stone after soaking your feet is okay for mild calluses. For thick, painful calluses, see a podiatrist for safe and effective removal. We use sterile instruments and techniques to prevent complications.

3. The Trend: Baking Soda Soaks for Everything

  • The Claim: Baking soda soaks are touted as a cure-all for everything from foot odor to ingrown toenails.
  • The Reality: Baking soda can help neutralize odor and may provide some mild relief for inflammation. However, it’s not a substitute for proper medical treatment for conditions like ingrown toenails or fungal infections. Over-soaking can also dry out your skin.
  • Podiatrist-Approved Alternative: For foot odor, focus on good hygiene, breathable shoes, and moisture-wicking socks. For ingrown toenails or other specific problems, see a podiatrist.

While TikTok can be a fun source of information, it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice. Choose the right shoes, be skeptical of DIY foot care “hacks” (especially those involving sharp tools or harsh chemicals), and when in doubt, consult a podiatrist!

Like Dr. Michaels says:

“If it’s below the knee, think of me!”

Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute, LLC offers comprehensive podiatric services. Call us at 301-797-8554 or contact us to schedule an appointment. Located in Hagerstown & Frederick, MD, we’re ready to meet any of your foot health needs.