You rely on your feet to take you places, so when they are dry and cracking, the pain can make it difficult to get where you want to go. Because your feet have so much contact with hard surfaces, they develop extra layers of skin called calluses, according to ePodiatry. While a callus can be protective, it also can become dry and cracked. The right treatments can prevent this condition from occurring.
Significance
Dry skin on the feet can quickly develop into a thick callus with small to deep cracks. Prolonged standing, uncomfortable shoes, excess weight or medical conditions, such as diabetes, can cause dry skin to develop on the feet. Dry skin can appear as yellow or brown areas of discoloration, most typically on the heel. If dry skin progresses to cracking, the areas can bleed and cause pain.
Prevention
Dry layers of skin may actually be a buildup of dead skin cells. Prevent this buildup to avoid cracking and extreme dryness. To exfoliate, rub a pumice stone on the heel and pad of each foot after you get out of the bath or shower. Apply a thick layer of hydrating cream that also contains an alpha hydroxy acid; this will help to eliminate layers of dead skin.
Treatment
If dry skin does occur on the feet, take advantage of the time you spend asleep by slathering on a thick cream, then putting on thin, clean cotton socks. This will help to lock in moisture. Moisturize again in the morning before putting your shoes on, giving the lotion enough time to dry before putting on socks or shoes.
Diabetic Considerations
If you have diabetes, keeping your feet moisturized can be a challenge because circulation to your feet can be affected, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Examine your feet each day for signs of injury and note any callus development. Use a pumice stone on the feet, but be sure to do so gently. Because your feet may not heal as quickly after an injury because of diabetes, take extra care to keep them soft, smooth and healthy.
Warning
In some instances, extremely dry feet can be the result of a more severe condition, such as a fungus, eczema or psoriasis. If your feet do not respond to treatment, see a physician or podiatrist who can help to diagnose the cause of your dry feet.
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