Foot Care

Everything for sore, cracked, fungal or tired feet: Canespro and Mycosan for fungal nails, athlete’s foot gels and sprays, Flexitol for cracked heels, Compeed blister plasters and Scholl insoles for plantar fasciitis and long days on your feet.

All productsMedicines and TreatmentsSkincareVitamins & SupplementsPersonal CareDental CareHair CareBaby & ChildSensitive & MedicatedSun ProtectionDigestive Health

Common foot problems and what works

Fungal nail

Thick, yellow, crumbly nails take months to clear because the nail grows slowly. Canespro uses urea to soften and remove the infected nail over two to three weeks, then an antifungal cream treats the nail bed. Mycosan is a daily brush-on treatment that penetrates the nail. Either way, expect six to twelve months for a toenail to grow out clean, and treat athlete's foot at the same time or it will reinfect the nail.

Athlete's foot

Itchy, peeling skin between the toes. Mycosan Athlete's Foot Gel or an antifungal cream such as Daktarin or Canesten, used for two weeks after it looks clear. Dry between the toes, change socks daily, and use Mycosan foot and shoe powder or Scholl shoe spray to treat the shoes, which is where reinfection comes from.

Cracked heels

Flexitol Heel Balm contains 25% urea and softens even deep cracks within days. Apply nightly, and file gently once a week. Cracks that bleed or in people with diabetes need professional care.

Blisters

Compeed hydrocolloid plasters cushion, relieve pain immediately and speed healing. Leave them on until they fall off. Apply to hot spots before a blister forms on long walks.

Heel and arch pain

Plantar fasciitis causes sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning. Scholl Plantar Fasciitis insoles support the arch, and calf stretches morning and night make the biggest difference. Gel Activ insoles suit people who stand all day at work.

Skin tags and sweaty feet

Scholl Freeze Away treats skin tags at home. Kelkin Tea Tree foot spray and Scholl Fresh Step control odour and sweat.

If you have diabetes, do not use acid, freezing or urea-based products on your feet without advice, and have any cut, blister or ulcer checked promptly.

Common questions about foot care

Which fungal nail treatment should I use?

Canespro for removing badly affected nail quickly, or Mycosan for a simple daily brush-on. Both need months of persistence while the nail grows out. Treat athlete's foot at the same time and disinfect shoes.

How long does athlete's foot take to clear?

Usually one to two weeks with an antifungal gel or cream, but continue for another two weeks after it looks better to stop it coming back. Keep feet dry and treat your shoes.

What helps plantar fasciitis?

Supportive insoles, calf and foot stretches twice a day, supportive shoes rather than flat ones, and ibuprofen gel for pain. Most cases settle in a few months with consistent stretching.

How do Compeed blister plasters work?

They are hydrocolloid dressings that absorb fluid, cushion the blister and create a moist environment for healing. Leave them in place for several days until they come off on their own.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.