Podiatrist warns about dangers of trendy foot peel masks – they ‘don’t know the difference between healthy & dead skin’
A PODIATRIST is unmasking the dangers of a popular foot peel mask.
She warns that the trendy item can lead to traumatic health concerns.
THE PEEL PROBLEM
Nicki (@thepodlifts) doesn’t want you to be fooled by the foot peel’s ability to “remove dead skin.”
In a viral video, she explained how the mask “doesn’t know the difference between healthy and dead skin.”
This confusion can lead to catastrophe.
For those with health issues, the consequences can be even more dire.
People who suffer from diabetes or are immunocompromised especially need to be careful as the mask can eventually create a “foot ulcer or foot wound.”
Vulnerable people are at a “higher risk of developing infection.”
The most severe cases can lead to sepsis and even amputation.
FEAR THE FOOT PEEL
Many people shared their own foot peel mask horror stories.
“I once used a foot peel and my skin had chemical burns,” said one viewer.
“I have four autoimmune conditions and pancreatic disease. Foot peels cause second to third burns on my feet,” said another watcher.
“I used a foot mask peel a couple of weeks ago. My feet peeled like crazy which is what I wanted, but I’ve had hives since, and now the bottoms of my feet are so itchy,” a third user chimed in.
“I’m a medic and we see this all the time. The smallest cuts can lead to amputation,” said one watcher.
“All of my shoes gave me blisters after a foot peel, so annoying,” said one viewer.
Others were already heeding her warning.
“I just took mine off now,” said one watcher.
OTHER DANGERS
Most foot peels are a combination of “alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, and essential oils,” according to the doctors at the Foot Ankle Center.
They also warn of potential dangers.
Over-exfoliating can cause “blisters” and “skin infections.”
If you are exhibiting signs of sores or open wounds, you are even more at risk.
They also confirmed that peels pose some of the biggest health hazards to those with diabetes as having high glucose levels can “affect the body’s ability to heal wounds.”
Other ingredients in the peel such as “alcohol” and “certain fragrances” can cause issues for allergy sufferers and expectant mothers.