Many people suffer from dry feet or callused heels and are unsure how to improve their skin texture. Thankfully, our bunion specialist in Bethesda, MD, has some helpful tips to make your feet softer and remove that dead skin!
What Causes Dry Feet?
Dead skin on the feet and heels builds due to lack of moisture and wearing closed shoes or socks for extended periods. Dryness can also be due to friction from walking or running and not regularly caring for your feet.
Common Symptoms
Dead skin does not cause any pain and appears on the bottom of your foot as cracked, dry, or loose. Be aware that other foot conditions, such as athlete’s foot, eczema, or skin infections, can also cause dryness and cracking. See our podiatrist if you believe you may have one of these conditions. If not, there are steps you can take to remove the dead skin and bring back your healthy feet!
Tips for Removing Dead Skin
For the thickest part of your dry or cracked skin, you can start with a scrubbing tool, such as:
Pumice stone. A natural stone that can help remove dead skin and calluses. Wet the stone and move it in a circular motion over your feet to remove dead skin.
Epsom salt. Soak your feet in an Epsom salt solution to soften the skin on your feet.
Foot scrubs. You can buy foot scrubs that are designed to remove dead skin. Alternatively, you can make your own at home with sea salt, baby oil, and lemon juice.
Oatmeal scrub. Make your scrub at home! Combine oatmeal and milk to create a paste, put it on your feet for 20-30 minutes, and then use a foot brush to scrub your feet. Rinse and let dry.
After any method, make sure to apply lotion to your skin to maintain moisture! You should avoid scrubbing if you have diabetes, as you may accidentally create a dangerous cut or sore, and never try to remove a callus with sharp objects – contact our podiatrist instead!
Contact Our Bunion Specialist in Bethesda, MD, Today To Learn More!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other podiatry-related topics, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center by clicking here or by calling 301-232-3764.
