Foot odor and peeling skin on the feet can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. While most of the time these conditions are not serious, you should see your doctor for a definitive diagnosis if home remedies do not help your condition. If you are diabetic, see your doctor immediately if you experience any foot problems, as you are more at risk for complications, such as infection and gangrene.
Sweating
Most of the time, according to ePodiatry, foot odor occurs due to perspiration. Wearing socks and shoes provides a moist, warm place for bacteria to proliferate, and when perspiration mixes with this bacteria, it creates a isovaleric acid, which has a strong and unpleasant odor. Good foot hygiene reduces foot odor in most cases. Wash your feet daily and apply foot powder if desired. Change your socks once or twice a day. If your feet sweat a lot, alternate between two or more pairs of shoes to give each pair a chance to dry fully in between wearings. Wear socks and shoes made from breathable fibers, such as cotton, wool, canvas or leather, and avoid wearing nylon socks or plastic shoes. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a prescription anti-perspirant for you to use on your feet.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet. Its symptoms include dryness, itching, peeling and cracking of the skin between the toes and on the soles of your feet. Athlete's foot is contagious. It can live on damp surfaces, such as bath mats or the floor at a public pool or locker room. It can also be caused or exacerbated by wearing wet socks or shoes. If you develop athlete's foot, keep the area clean and dry, and apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream, powder or spray. If the condition does not clear up within a few weeks, see your doctor for prescription medication.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes dryness, peeling and scaling. It can occur on any part of the body, especially the scalp, shins and feet. The peeling often looks like white, scaly patches that bleed if you scrape or pick at them, states the Podiatry Network. It can be hard to differentiate from athlete's foot. If you think you may have psoriasis, see your doctor for treatment.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis occurs upon exposure to an irritating substance, or one that you are allergic or sensitive to. Common culprits include dyes in your socks or the laundry detergent that you wash your socks in. It can also be caused by soaking your feet in various solutions, such as vinegar, salt water and betadine, says the Podiatry Network Dermatitis can cause peeling skin and a rash on the feet. Apply cool compresses at home to relieve the discomfort. See your doctor for a diagnosis before applying any hydrocortisone cream, because if an infection is present, the cortisone may cause complications.
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