What should I do if my foot has peeling skin and is itchy?

Apr 07, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Itchy, peeling feet can generally be treated through daily care, topical ointments, and oral medications. Itchy, peeling skin on the feet is usually caused by athlete's foot. Wash your feet daily with warm water and soap, then dry them thoroughly with a clean towel to keep the feet dry. Avoid wearing tight, non-breathable shoes. If symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, seek medical attention promptly.

When the feet have peeling skin accompanied by itching, treatment generally includes daily care, topical ointments, and oral medications. Specific approaches are as follows:

1. Daily Care

Peeling and itchy skin on the feet is usually caused by athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Wash the feet daily with warm water and soap, then dry thoroughly with a clean towel to keep the feet dry. Avoid wearing tight-fitting or non-breathable shoes.

2. Topical Ointments

If the symptoms of peeling and itchy skin are due to a fungal infection, topical antifungal medications may be used under a doctor’s guidance, such as clotrimazole cream or terbinafine cream. Avoid spicy and irritating foods in daily diet, and consume more protein- and vitamin-rich foods to promote wound healing.

3. Oral Medications

If peeling and itchy skin on the feet is caused by an allergic reaction, antihistamine medications such as loratadine tablets or cetirizine tablets may be taken under medical supervision. Avoid contact with substances that may trigger allergies.

In addition to the above methods, physical therapy may also be considered. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical consultation is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional.