What causes dryness, peeling, and cracking of the soles of the feet?

Peeling and cracking of the soles may be caused by dry skin, keratotic eczema, fungal infection, or other reasons: 1. **Dry Skin**: Peeling and cracking of the soles are commonly caused by dry skin. Neglecting skin care, frequent exposure to air, and ultraviolet radiation may lead to severe skin dehydration. Dry climates can also cause skin dryness, which may result in symptoms such as peeling, cracking, and dryness-related pain on the soles. Soaking feet in warm water daily and applying olive oil, aloe gel, vitamin E capsules (as directed by a physician) can help moisturize the skin. 2. **Keratotic Eczema**: Peeling and cracking of the soles may also be due to keratotic eczema, typically caused by long-term chronic inflammatory irritation of the skin. It may be triggered by contact with harmful substances and can cause symptoms such as dryness, scaling, peeling, and itching of the skin. Topical application of flumethasone or mometasone furoate (as directed by a physician) may help alleviate symptoms. 3. **Fungal Infection**: Peeling and cracking of the soles may also be caused by fungal infection, which is usually transmitted through direct or indirect contact. Frequent visits to public swimming pools, public baths, and similar places may increase the risk of fungal infection. Symptoms may include skin peeling, cracking, and intense itching. Topical application of terbinafine or ketoconazole (as directed by a physician) may be used for treatment.