Hard skin has developed on the feet.

Thick, hardened skin on the feet may result from physiological factors, and symptoms usually improve with proper warmth. It could also be caused by conditions such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot) or dry eczema, which require appropriate medical treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

If one remains in a cold environment for a prolonged period, sweat secretion in the feet may decrease, leading to poor peripheral blood circulation. This can cause dryness and hardening of the skin. Continuous exposure to such stimulation may lead to the development of thick, hardened skin on the feet. Timely warming measures should be taken to alleviate discomfort.

2. Pathological Factors

1) Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot)

This is a fungal infection affecting the hands and feet, resulting in excessive keratinization of the stratum corneum. It causes dead skin and hardened patches on the feet, accompanied by flaking and dryness. Treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as hydrocortisone butyrate cream, compound dexamethasone acetate cream, or oral terbinafine hydrochloride tablets to promote recovery.

2) Dry Eczema

A common chronic inflammatory, itchy skin condition, dry eczema reduces sebum production on the skin surface, leading to thickened, hardened skin along with flaking and itching. Medications such as loratadine tablets, compound glycyrrhizin capsules, and hydrocortisone butyrate cream should be used according to medical guidance.

In addition to the above causes, hardened skin may also result from calluses, corns, or plantar warts. If discomfort occurs, individuals should promptly visit a hospital for evaluation to determine the exact cause and receive proper treatment to facilitate recovery.