Dry and peeling skin between the toes
Oct 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Lingjuan
Introduction
Dryness and peeling between the toes may result from non-medical factors such as dry environments, or be caused by medical conditions including pompholyx, eczema, and athlete's foot. Treatment should be based on the underlying cause. Other possible causes include exfoliative keratolysis and vitamin A deficiency. It is recommended to wash feet regularly, maintain good foot hygiene, and frequently change shoes and socks in daily life.
Dryness and peeling between the toes may be caused by non-disease factors such as dry environments, or may result from medical conditions such as pompholyx (dyshidrotic eczema), eczema, or athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Treatment with medication can be administered according to the underlying cause.
1. Non-disease Factors
If the living environment is particularly dry or if one lives long-term in air-conditioned rooms, the skin on the feet may become dry, leading to dryness and peeling between the toes.
2. Disease Factors
1. Pompholyx (Dyshidrotic Eczema)
Pompholyx is a specific type of eczema that commonly affects the spaces between the toes and the sides of fingers. Patients may experience dry peeling and small blisters, accompanied by intense itching. During the blistering phase, calamine lotion can be used to relieve itching. Additionally, medications such as erythromycin ointment or triamcinolone acetonide/econazole cream may be applied as directed by a physician.
2. Eczema
Eczema frequently occurs on both hands and feet. Affected areas may develop papules (small bumps), along with symptoms such as itching and dry, peeling skin between the toes. It is generally associated with allergic reactions. Antiallergic treatment may include oral administration of loratadine tablets or cetirizine tablets as prescribed. It is also important to avoid skin irritants such as soap and hot water.
3. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)
This condition is usually caused by fungal infection originating from toenails. Symptoms include dryness, peeling, and itching between the toes. Treatment primarily involves antifungal medications such as bifonazole cream or butenafine cream. Patients should avoid sharing shoes, socks, or foot-washing basins with others.
Other possible causes of dry, peeling skin between the toes include exfoliative keratolysis and vitamin A deficiency. It is recommended to wash feet regularly, maintain good foot hygiene, wear breathable footwear and socks, change socks frequently, and avoid public baths or swimming pools. A light diet is advised, with reduced intake of spicy, greasy, and irritating foods.
