Heat and Humidity
Heat and humidity draw moisture from the skin, which can lead to dry skin, thick or cracked areas on the feet. Watch out for shoes and socks that make your feet sweat, as the heat and humidity in there will dry out your skin. Contrary to popular belief, the more your feet sweat, the drier the actual skin becomes as the natural internal moisture is drawn out onto the surface layer of your skin. Skin dryness from humidity is a particular concern for those of us in Queensland! It is common to see people with dry, cracked heels yet with tinea pedis between their toes due to the humid environment our feet are in daily. So ditch those sweaty socks and opt for breathable socks and shoes instead!
Exposure to the Elements
Even though you feel great walking around in sandals or strolling barefoot, your skin might not feel the same. Whether it’s a hot, humid summer or a cold weather, exposure to natural elements can strip your skin of the limited moisture it’s holding onto leading to rough skin. Walking barefoot or in unsupportive footwear is also a sure fire way to develop thick skin on the soles of your feet which can easily lead to cracked feet and cracked heels as this rough skin loses the normal elasticity of healthy skin and forms deep cracks as a result of pressure.
Hot water
Actually not just hot water, but water in general. Drinking plenty of water helps you stay hydrated, but too much water on your skin can actually have a dehydrating effect leading to cracked heels and dry feet. Long baths or showers can strip out the natural oils from your skin and can leave skin feeling rough, flakey and dry. Water that’s too hot simply adds to the issue, sapping moisture by causing your feet to sweat. So keep the temperature down a little. It doesn’t have to be lukewarm water, but try to limit exposure to excessively hot water for long periods as much as you can.
Using the wrong products (or no products at all)
As mentioned above, water washes away your skin’s natural oils, essentially causing dryness and dehydration. This issue can be made even worse if you’re using harsh soaps, which pull even more moisture from the skin, leading to further dryness and causing it to feel tight and dry. Try a moisturising body wash instead such as QV or Sorbolene wash.
If you have dry skin you should apply moisturiser daily. Apply directly after your shower, when your skin is still a little bit damp, to lock in the moisture and reduce or prevent cracks and dry skin.
Advance Foot Clinic stocks what we consider to be the best cream: Callusan Cream Mousse in 5%, 10% and 15% urea. These creams absorb in and feel dry to the touch. Our clinics have found Callusan particularly beneficial for rough, cracked and dry skin. It is also recommended for diabetic foot care.
Wearing the wrong footwear
Wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate support, are the wrong size, don’t let feet breathe or rub against your skin can trigger dryness or make an existing problem even worse and painful. Unsupportive shoes put constant pressure on certain areas of the foot and even allow fat under your heels to expand and crack. The result is skin that becomes dry, callused and rough. Likewise, shoes that rub cause friction on the skin, leading to blisters, irritation and dryness which can all lead to infection in severe cases.
Look for proper footwear with adequate support, breathable materials and ensure you’re wearing the correct size. Natural fibre socks will also help, like cotton socks or bamboo socks. If you do have any blisters, wounds or deep cracks in heels ensure they are covered with a dressing or liquid bandages.
Eczema and Psoriasis
Both Eczema and Psoriasis are skin conditions that cause redness, dry skin, itchiness and patchiness that come and go in flare ups. They can be incredibly frustrating to deal with. These conditions are generally linked to your immune system and are often misdiagnosed as a fungal infection.
If you believe you have eczema and/or psoriasis, seek a dermatologist for diagnosis. Skin conditions can have many overlapping symptoms and only a qualified professional will be able to advise on the correct course of treatment.
Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Athlete’s Foot is very common. Properly known as Tinea Pedis, it is a itchy fungal infection and so spreads very easily. You will notice a rash that is red, scaly and dry that peels and feels itchy. Commonly presents on the sides of the heels and in the webbing of toes. Fungus thrive in humid areas and often spread in pools and communal showers. It can also spread through soil and even in the air.
If you find you have Athlete’s Foot, there are plenty of effective over-the-counter antifungal medications that should clear it up. If that doesn’t work, a visit to the doctor may be in order for an even stronger medication. These days there are even options without the need for medication, such as Lunula cold nail laser. Your podiatrist will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment.
So, what causes dry feet?
The answer is there are many factors that might be contributing to your dry feet. First make the necessary lifestyle changes. If you find you are still struggling with the issue, book an appointment with your local podiatrist for foot care and further advice.
Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Athlete’s Foot is very common. Properly known as Tinea Pedis, it is a itchy fungal infection and so spreads very easily. You will notice a rash that is red, scaly and dry that peels and feels itchy. Commonly presents on the sides of the heels and in the webbing of toes. Fungus thrive in humid areas and often spread in pools and communal showers. It can also spread through soil and even in the air.
If you find you have Athlete’s Foot, there are plenty of effective over-the-counter antifungal medications that should clear it up. If that doesn’t work, a visit to the doctor may be in order for an even stronger medication. These days there are even options without the need for medication, such as Lunula cold nail laser. Your podiatrist will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment.
So, what causes dry feet?
The answer is there are many factors that might be contributing to your dry feet. First make the necessary lifestyle changes. If you find you are still struggling with the issue, book an appointment with your local podiatrist for foot care and further advice.