Dry skin on your feet, also known as "xerosis," according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, is caused by friction from shoes, wearing open sandals, a dry climate and weight gain. Some conditions, including chronic dry skin and autonomic neuropathy, can also cause dry feet. Natural remedies provide short-term relief for your cracked feet.
Soaking
Soaking your feet in warm, but not hot, water each night helps soften the dead and cracked skin marring your feet. The water penetrates the dead skin, making it easier to remove. It also hydrates the skin by infusing it with continual moisture. The cells of your skin soak up the water as if they were sponges, says podiatrist William Van Pelt, D.P.M., former president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine, in MotherNature.com. He recommends at least 20 minutes of soaking each night.
Pumice Stone
A pumice stone is made of pumice, a coarse mineral that can be cut and shaped. Pumice stones are highly abrasive, which makes them ideal for sloughing away dead skin cells immediately following a good soak. The American Diabetes Association recommends a natural pumice stone for dry skin and calluses, as those who suffer from diabetes are prone to both. Find a pumice stone at a health food store, beauty supply store or an organic product supplier and rub it onto your feet for five minutes after soaking.
Petroleum Jelly
American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommends that you keep your feet moisturized at all times. One way to do this is to protect your feet using petroleum jelly. Petroleum jelly is highly emollient and hydrates dry skin, while protecting it from drying elements like the cold and indoor heating. After you've used your pumice stone, slather a thick coating of petroleum jelly over your feet. Slip on a pair of thick socks and sleep all night with them on. When you awake, the jelly will have absorbed into the skin, resulting in smoother feet.
Humidity
Dry, cracked skin on your feet is often the product of your environment. Over the long winter months, indoor heating can make your home feel dry, with little moisture in the air to keep your skin hydrated. A humidifier can help keep the air moist so your skin doesn't dry out as easily, according to MayoClinic.com. Choose a portable one and keep it filled with water. Keep your humidifier clean and bacteria-free by rinsing it with vinegar after each use.
If you don't own an humidifier, turn your shower on to a hot setting and spend time in the warm and moist air in your bathroom, without getting wet. This can temporarily relieve dry air and help hydrate your skin.
Member Comments