Severe peeling of skin on the feet can be caused by a number of factors. Among these are environmental causes, such as dry heat or excessive sun exposure. Fungal infections can cause skin to peel on the feet, as can certain skin conditions and disorders. Although often uncomfortable and unsightly, peeling skin on the feet is typically due to relatively minor skin issues. However, on rare occasions, severe skin peeling can indicate serious health issues. If skin peeling is accompanied by severe foot pain, muscle aches, joint pain, unexplained weight loss or fever, a medical professional should be consulted as soon as possible.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a very common reason for peeling skin on the feet. A fungal infection, athlete's foot symptoms include itching and burning between the toes or on the sole of the foot. Itchy blisters can appear, and extreme dryness of the skin on the bottom or side of the foot is common. Cracking and peeling of the skin between toes or on the soles of the feet often occurs with athlete's foot, and toenails can become infected, causing them to become thickened, discolored, crumbly or separate from the nail bed.
According to Mayo Clinic, athlete's foot infections are caused by a family of fungi called dermatophytes, which infect the superficial layer of the skin and spread, causing skin to become thick and scaly. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, and can be passed from one person to another through direct contact or may be lying in wait for new victims in shared areas, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, showers and saunas.
According to MedLine Plus, most cases of athlete's foot can be cleared up with over-the-counter anti-fungal medications. However, if symptoms are not relieved after two to four weeks of treatment, sufferers should seek care from a medical professional.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or painful patches of red, scaly skin. A common source of skin peeling problems, psoriasis is caused by an immune system problem. According to Mayo Clinic, most types of psoriasis flare up for a few weeks or months, then subside for a period of time in a repetitive cycle. This skin disease is most commonly found in areas that include the feet, palms, scalp, elbows, knees and face but can appear anywhere on the body.
According to MedLine Plus, this skin disorder can sometimes run in families, and psoriasis symptoms can be triggered or worsened by factors such as infections, certain medications, stress and dry skin. Treatments for psoriasis include topical creams and ointments, photo therapy, and oral medications, depending upon the type and severity of the disease. Those who suspect psoriasis may be the cause of severe peeling on the feet should make an appointment with a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is another common cause of skin peeling on the feet. Contact dermatitis is another common cause of skin peeling on the feet. An inflammation of the skin, contact dermatitis is a skin reaction to certain irritating or allergy causing substances, such as poison oak or ivy, acids, soaps or chemicals. For those who are sensitive, the chemicals used to process leather can cause contact dermatitis in the feet, as can detergents used to launder socks. Treatment includes flushing the area to remove allergens or irritants and avoiding further contact. Topical creams are often used to ease symptoms until contact dermatitis is resolved.
