Introduction
Severe dry skin on the feet is a common problem faced by many people. Some people are predisposed to dry skin, while others can develop severe dry skin from taking long showers or baths with hot water. In addition, skin tends to get drier as we age. Dry skin on the feet is particularly troublesome because it tends to flake and crack, which can become painful. Since the feet do not contain oil producing glands, they are unable to produce the additional oil needed to keep moisturized. This is why it is important to pay special attention to the feet when moisturizing the skin. Fortunately, there are many skin care products available that have been specifically formulated for dry feet. This article will discuss additional steps that can help combat extremely dry feet.
Important: Consult a physician if you believe you have symptoms of diabetes or fungal infection.
Bathing and Showering
Limit the amount of time spent in the shower or tub. Long hot showers and baths tend to contribute to severe dry skin. Also, do not use excessive amounts of soap on the feet, because soap tends to dry out skin, and the feet are already at a disadvantage since they do not contain oil producing glands. After showering or bathing, pat the feet dry with a soft towel. Make sure you dry your feet completely. This will help prevent fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot. After drying your feet, apply a moisturizer to the feet. Oil based emollients work well for this purpose. Rub the moisturizer into feet until well absorbed. Put on a pair of clean cotton socks to protect the feet.
Exfoliate
Feet tend to develop calluses and rough patches, particularly in the heel area. Exfoliating these areas prior to the application of a moisturizer is particularly effective in combating severe dry skin. Soak feet in a basin of warm water for 5 to 10 minutes. Using a pumice stone, scrub the rough areas gently in a back and forth motion. If necessary, scrub a bit more vigorously in a circular motion to remove any remaining rough patches. When finished, rinse feet well and pat dry with a soft towel. Apply moisturizer to dry feet.
Special Treatments
Special treatments for severe dry feet should be applied prior to bedtime in order to reap the maximum benefit. Always apply treatments to clean dry feet. Moisturizing lotions containing alpha hydroxy acid slough off dry skin to gently exfoliate. Apply the lotion to the feet and then cover the feet with clean cotton socks prior to retiring for the evening. This allows the lotion to work overnight.
Effective deep moisturizing treatments for the feet can also be made using products often found in the home. White petroleum jelly or white shortening, such as Crisco, are very effective at soothing and healing severe dry feet. Apply these products to clean dry feet and cover with clean cotton socks.
Melissa Bushman has published additional articles at Associated Content. Please click her name at the top of this article to view her other work.
