Dry skin and calluses generally cause rough skin on feet. The Mayo Clinic states that calluses develop in response to pressure and friction caused by walking barefoot or wearing shoes that are too tight. Rough, dry skin on the feet is often worse in the winter, when environmental humidity levels drop. Getting rid of rough or callused skin involves removing hardened, dead areas and restoring the skin's natural moisture level.
Step 1
Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften your skin and make removal of calluses and dead skin easier. Avoid soaking your feet in hot water, as doing so can increase dryness by removing your skin's natural oils, according to the University of Iowa.
Step 2
Wet a pumice stone and rub rough areas or calluses in a circular motion. The Nemours Foundation states that pumice stones help rough feet by rubbing away dead, hardened skin. Rinse your feet often while using the pumice stone to remove dead skin flakes and pumice particles.
Step 3
Dry your feet with a soft, clean cloth. Pat your skin gently to avoid irritation. Dry thoroughly between your toes to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Step 4
Apply a moisturizing ointment to dry or rough areas. The University of Iowa recommends applying the ointment within three minutes of leaving the bath. Reapply the ointment as often as needed throughout the day to keep your skin soft and hydrated.
Step 5
Coat rough or callused areas with petroleum jelly and cover with socks before going to bed at night. Your skin will be considerably softer and less rough in the morning.
Tips and Warnings
- Adding about 1/2 cup of baking soda to the water when soaking your feet will help soften them in preparation for removing rough skin. Baking soda also helps the skin retain moisture, according to Health911. Salicylic acid patches are available to help treat severe calluses.
- Cracked feet require evaluation and treatment by a medical professional. The University of Iowa cautions against using bath oil in the tub because it can make surfaces slippery and lead to falls.
Things You'll Need
- Pumice stone
- Moisturizing ointment
- Petroleum jelly
Member Comments