What causes itchy, peeling skin on the feet?

Mar 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, peeling and itchy feet may be caused by dry skin, hot environments, keratolysis exfoliativa, athlete's foot (tinea pedis), eczema, or other reasons. The appropriate solution depends on the specific cause and medical advice should be sought promptly for treatment. It is also important to maintain good daily living habits and dietary practices to help prevent and improve foot skin problems.

Generally, peeling and itchy feet may be caused by dry skin, hot environment, keratolysis exfoliativa, tinea pedis (athlete's foot), eczema, and other reasons. The solution depends on the specific cause and medical consultation should be sought promptly for treatment according to medical advice. The detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dry Skin: Prolonged exposure to dry environments or seasonal changes can cause the skin on the feet to lose moisture, leading to dryness, peeling, and itching. Apply moisturizing lotions or creams containing ingredients such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated. Additionally, drink plenty of water to maintain adequate hydration in the body.

2. Hot Environment: During hot summer weather, excessive sweating of the feet and prolonged exposure to damp conditions may cause peeling and itching. Wearing breathable shoes and socks can help reduce perspiration. Keep the feet clean and dry by washing daily with warm water and thoroughly drying between the toes.

3. Keratolysis Exfoliativa: Keratolysis exfoliativa is a superficial, non-inflammatory desquamative skin condition, possibly related to genetic and climatic factors. During seasonal changes, dry climates may cause superficial, non-inflammatory skin peeling on the feet, often accompanied by mild itching. Follow medical advice to use medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, ebastine tablets, or mecobalamin tablets for treatment.

4. Tinea Pedis (Athlete's Foot): Tinea pedis is a common skin disease caused by dermatophyte infection of the feet. During fungal growth and metabolism, the stratum corneum may be damaged, causing localized itching, peeling, and sometimes blistering. Under medical guidance, apply antifungal medications such as amorolfine hydrochloride cream, luliconazole cream, or itraconazole capsules for treatment.

5. Eczema: Eczema is an inflammatory condition of the epidermis and superficial dermis caused by various internal and external factors. Foot eczema may lead to redness, swelling, peeling, and itching of the skin, sometimes accompanied by papules. Follow medical instructions to use medications such as antipruritic ointments, dexamethasone acetate cream, or mometasone furoate cream for anti-inflammatory and itch-relieving effects.

Maintaining good living and dietary habits in daily life can help prevent and improve skin problems on the feet.

References:

[1] Li Linfeng. Dermatology and Venereology [M]. Higher Education Press, 2021.

[2] Yang Rongya, He Li. Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery [M]. People's Medical Publishing House, 2022.

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What are the causes of foot pain in a 12-year-old boy?

In general, foot pain in 12-year-old boys may be caused by overexertion during exercise, ill-fitting shoes, growing pains, plantar fasciitis, paronychia, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Daily care should include monitoring the boy's foot condition, performing proper warm-up exercises before physical activity, doing appropriate stretching afterward, wearing suitable footwear and socks, and avoiding excessive strain on the feet.