Hands up if you have experienced dry feet! It’s annoying, embarrassing and frustrating, but also incredibly common. Dry, cracked and flaking skin is especially common on the heel and sole because these areas have fewer oil glands than skin elsewhere on the body. Predisposing them to drier skin. But there are other ways you may inadvertently reduce the moisture in the skin of your feet. So if you are asking the question: what causes dry feet? You’ll find answers here on some of the most common causes of dry, cracked, or scaly skin on the feet.
Heat and Humidity
Heat and humidity draw moisture from the skin, which can lead to dry, thick or cracked areas on the feet. Watch out for shoes that make your feet sweat, as the heat and humidity in there will dry out your skin.
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, dry winter, exposure to natural elements can strip your skin of the limited moisture it’s holding onto.
Hot water
Actually not just hot water, but water in general. Drinking plenty of water is hydrating, but too much water on your skin can actually have a dehydrating effect. Long baths or showers can strip the natural oils from your skin and can leave it 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.
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, causing it to feel tight and dry. Try a moisturising body wash instead.
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 the new 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. 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.
Look for shoes with adequate support, breathable materials and ensure you’re wearing the correct size.
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.
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 fungal infection and so spreads very easily. You will notice a rash that is red, scaly and dry that peels and feels itchy. 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. 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 further advice.
Contributed by Podiatrist Pam Denman