MD Podiatrist Discusses Hazards of Going Barefoot

Your feet are more likely to pick up gross things in certain environments, like gyms or spas, says Dan Michaels, DPM.  Bacteria, fungi, and viruses tend to love warm, moist environments, like saunas, pools, spas, or gym showers, says Dr. Michaels. These germs are more likely in public spaces, but they can live anywhere, including your home.

“As a foot doctor, I’m afraid of a spa situation because that’s where people pick up things like fungus or warts,” she says. Going barefoot increases your risk of an injury, like a cut or scratch on your feet. When the skin barrier is broken—no matter how tiny the cut is—pathogens can get in and potentially cause problems like warts, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, and infections, Dr. Michaels explains.