What causes itching, erosion, and peeling between the toes?

Itching, cracking, and peeling between the toes may be caused by poor hygiene, excessive foot sweating, friction irritation, athlete's foot (tinea pedis), or eczema. Improvements can be made according to the specific cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and receive treatment under professional guidance.

1. Poor hygiene: Not washing feet regularly or changing socks and shoes frequently can lead to accumulation of dirt between the toes, promoting bacterial and fungal growth, which may result in skin infections characterized by itching, cracking, and peeling. It is advisable to develop good hygiene habits—wash feet daily with warm water and thoroughly dry them afterward, especially between the toes. Change socks and shoes regularly, and avoid sharing slippers, foot basins, or other personal items with others.

2. Excessive foot sweating: The feet contain numerous sweat glands, and excessive perspiration, combined with non-breathable footwear, can create a moist environment between the toes. This dampness may cause skin maceration, leading to itching and peeling, and in severe cases, erosion. Keep feet clean and dry, change socks and shoes frequently, choose breathable footwear, and avoid wearing non-ventilated shoes such as leather shoes or rubber shoes.

3. Friction irritation: Ill-fitting shoes—those that are too tight, too small, or too pointed—can cause excessive friction on the toes, damaging the skin between them and resulting in itching, cracking, and peeling. Choose properly sized, comfortable shoes and avoid wearing high heels or overly tight footwear for extended periods.

4. Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis): This is a fungal skin infection commonly affecting the spaces between the toes, soles, and heels. Symptoms include itching, peeling, and blister formation; in severe cases, there may be erosion and oozing. Under medical supervision, topical antifungal medications such as clotrimazole cream, terbinafine hydrochloride cream, or bifonazole cream may be used to relieve symptoms.

5. Eczema: This condition is associated with various internal and external factors, including allergies, genetics, and environmental triggers. It can affect the feet, particularly between the toes, presenting as itchy skin, redness, papules, and blisters. Scratching may lead to erosion and peeling. Patients may use prescribed topical corticosteroids such as halometasone cream, mometasone furoate cream, or desonide cream to alleviate discomfort, following a doctor's instructions.

In daily life, it is important to get adequate rest, ensure sufficient sleep, avoid staying up late, and engage in moderate outdoor activities such as walking or jogging, which may help support recovery.