Do you suffer from unsightly, red scars on your feet? These unattractive marks can be the result of many things, but they are commonly the result of blisters and cuts caused by uncomfortable, ill fitting shoes. Of course you should avoid wearing shoes like this; they can cause a score of problems beyond little cuts and marks, such as heel spurs and broken bones and sprains in the toes. Even with that advice in mind, you are probably still in search of a way to eradicate those unsightly little red scars. Here are some tips to help you reduce these ugly marks. Please note that these tips are only for scars, not for open cuts or blisters that have yet to heal.

- Over The Counter Creams: There are a few over the counter creams that can be useful in reducing the appearance of scars, such as Mederma. However, natural treatments can often work just as well. Try breaking open a capsule of Vitamin E oil and applying it to the scar once daily. Chemical exfoliants such as alpha hydroxy acid can also help to reduce the appearance of scars, as they help to remove dead cells and encourage new cell regrowth. A great over the counter product is AmLactin cream.
- Manual Exfoliation: You should never overly exfoliate a scar, as it can cause additional damage and scaring. With that said, a little physical exfoliation can indeed help to remove dead skin cells and encourage new cell regrowth. Manual exfoliation can be accomplished with either a stiff brush, or a sugar or salt based scrub. These products don’t have to break the bank: A bath brush shouldn’t cost you more than five dollars at the local drugstore, and inexpensive brands like Neutrogena and L’Oreal both make affordable scrubs.
- Laser Treatments: The best way to get rid of a scar is through laser treatments. Laser treatments are the only way to completely remove a scar; the aforementioned solutions can only reduce the appearance. However, laser treatments can be expensive, and it often takes multiple treatments before you can see results. The best advice on this choice is to consult with your podiatrist to determine the necessity of this treatment.

Scars on your feet can definitely be unsightly. However, there are certainly ways to treat them and to help to reduce their appearance. Whether you try to get rid of your scars through exfoliation or through laser treatments performed by your podiatrist, just be careful to not be overzealous in your quest for scar removal, as that can only worsen the appearance of the scar and even cause additional scarring.

If you’re considering surgery to remove a bunion, here are some things you want to consider when selecting a podiatrist to perform the procedure:

There are many doctors in virtually every area of the United States who are qualified to perform your bunion surgery. The goal is to help you discern the real qualifications from deceptive ones. This way, you will be able to determine for yourself  whether or not your surgeon is likely provide you the outcome you want…getting back to enjoying your life with no more bunions.

Board Qualification
The surgeons with the most hours of training and most extensive board qualification testing are affiliated with the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. There are other “board certifications” such as the American Board of Foot Surgery and the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry.

Training
Your surgeon should have three years of foot and ankle surgical training in residency after medical school. The more training, the more experience with a wide range of surgical techniques.

Awards
Less than 1% of all surgeons will have won awards for advancing the field of surgery. If you find one, you have a winner for sure. Check their website for evidence that they are at the top of their field.

Creativity
Surgery is a science and an art. A good trait in a surgeon is one who looks for innovative ways to solve problems.

Authority
It is no coincidence that the word “authority” starts with “author.”  Those that write books, publish articles in medical journals and use their writing skills to educate other surgeons always stay on top of their game. A doctor who plays an active roll in his profession will have many listings.

Surgery should be a great experience because it will be the start of your recovery, and the start of a new more active, more enjoyable life. Spend time researching the person you select for your surgery and it will be time well spent. Over 85% of people are satisfied with the results of their surgery, and the relief of pain and constant discomfort is well worth the small scar that is left behind.

Today, laser surgery can be done on an outpatient basis, releasing you back to your normal life the same day. Of course, you will be on crutches for around a week and will have to nurture your foot back to health.