Extremely dry skin on the feet is a common issue, particularly in the winter when the air is drier and your feet are usually covered. Dry skin can crack or peel, which can be painful and expose tender skin on your feet to bacteria that could cause infections. Talk to your doctor or podiatrist if you have foot problems that do not clear up with self-care.
Causes
Overly dry skin on the feet is often a result of too little moisture. When the air is dry and your feet are exposed, the moisture in your skin can decrease, leading to rough patches of dry, scaly skin. Though it may provide pain relief, soaking your feet in hot water or taking hot showers or bath can draw the moisture out of your skin and leave your feet dry.
Harsh soaps and chemicals that may be found in foot soaks can dry out your skin, as can overexposure to the sun, explains the Mayo Clinic. Infections such as athlete’s foot can cause dry skin, especially between your toes. Corns and calluses can create hard patches of dry skin between the toes or on the heel or ball of your foot.
At-Home Treatment
Moisturizing your feet at home with creams and lotions can help to relieve dry skin. For extra moisture, you can massage your feet with a mild moisturizing lotion and wear socks overnight to help the cream soak into your skin. Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly, including between your toes, to prevent infections.
Medical Treatment
Your doctor or podiatrist can help with corns and calluses that lead to dry skin, particularly if they cause you pain or difficulty walking. Your doctor can trim or remove corns or calluses that do not go away on their own. You should never use sharp tools on your feet yourself, so see your doctor if your condition worsens or causes problems.
Considerations
Most cases of dry foot skin are not cause for concern. If you have diabetes or circulatory problems, proper foot care is extremely important and you should notify your doctor of any changes in your feet. In some cases, dry skin can be a sign of a thyroid problem. If your thyroid does not produce enough hormones, your sweat and oil glands may not produce enough moisture and lubrication.
Prevention
Keeping your feet moisturized with lotion or petroleum jelly, especially during colder months when the humidity is low, can help to prevent dry skin on your feet. Wear cotton socks that provide adequate ventilation and make sure your shoes fit properly. Shoes that are too tight or rub in certain areas can lead to corns and calluses, explains the American Podiatric Medical Association in a New York Times report. Shoes and socks that are thick and provide plenty of cushion can help to prevent the formation of calluses when you regularly stand or walk on hard surfaces.
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