According to a survey by Ilta-Sanomat, approximately one-third of Finns clean their feet only once a week or less. This surprising statistic highlights a potential gap in personal hygiene practices among the population. The survey involved about 7,200 participants, revealing varied routines: nearly 40% reported washing their feet daily, around 28% every other day, and about 22% weekly or less frequent. This lack of consistency raises concerns about overall foot health and hygiene standards among Finns.

Dermatologist Risto Oksman from Mehiläinen voiced his astonishment at these findings, noting that he has observed similar phenomena in his practice. Patients often feel embarrassed about showing their feet during consultations, which may contribute to inadequate foot care. Oksman stresses the necessity of thoroughly washing feet, including between the toes, during each shower, along with proper drying techniques. He encourages regular moisturizing to manage hard skin on the heels rather than relying on filing methods.

The results of this survey serve as a wake-up call and emphasize the need for increased awareness of personal hygiene, particularly concerning foot care. The health of our feet, often overlooked, is crucial for overall well-being and should not be neglected, suggesting a need for public health initiatives targeted at improving hygiene education regarding this often-embarrassing subject.