Your feet hold you up all day, get sweaty, absorb the shock of each and every step you take, and do all this while forced into uncomfortable shoes. They’re generally remarkably resilient.
However, just like the rest of your skin, the skin on your feet and toes is susceptible to infection, skin conditions, and other problems that can lead to peeling.
Most of the time, peeling skin isn’t a big problem, but sometimes it’s a symptom of a bigger problem. At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute, our providers want you to enjoy healthy, strong feet. Our podiatry services include keeping the skin on your feet and toes healthy.
Here are common reasons we see peeling skin on the feet and toes.
You can have dry skin anywhere on your body, including your feet. The medical name is xerosis, and it can lead to flaky, cracked, or mildly itchy skin. It can also cause skin to peel between your toes or on the soles of your feet.
Hot showers feel nice but can contribute to dry skin, as can friction from your shoes and dry air. If you skip moisturizing or wear sandals all summer, you may notice more peeling than usual.
Applying a moisturizer following bathing, avoiding especially hot showers, and using a gentle exfoliator a couple of times a week can help.
Peeling between the toes can also indicate athlete’s foot. This common infection is often transmitted in warm, damp places like locker rooms or pool decks. Other symptoms include:
Over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders may help. Also, keep your feet dry and change your socks often. Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces like pools or locker rooms.
The medical name for eczema is atopic dermatitis, and it can appear on your feet. Common symptoms include:
People who have eczema typically experience flares, periods when their symptoms are worse. Flare-ups can result from stress, heat, allergens, or some fabrics or detergents.
If you have eczema, look for fragrance-free products like moisturizers, wear breathable socks, and discuss your condition with your podiatrist. You may need allergy testing if other treatments don’t work.
Another medical condition that can affect your feet is psoriasis. Palmoplantar psoriasis is one type that occurs on the palms and soles. Symptoms include:
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease affecting the skin; you need specialized treatment for it. When it affects your feet, having a podiatrist on your medical team helps.
You’ve probably had a sunburn before, and you likely know that peeling is part of healing. The same is true when your feet are sunburned. Vacationers often overlook putting sunscreen on their feet and end up with burns on the tops of their feet.
We recommend cool compresses, aloe vera, and staying out of the sun as your burn heals.
Indications that it’s time to get help for your peeling skin include:
The symptoms for several conditions are similar, so you need a correct diagnosis. Our experts can determine the underlying cause of your peeling skin and suggest a treatment plan.
Call our Henderson, Nevada, office today or book an appointment online to learn more.
