Dry, itchy skin between the toes

Shoes, sweating, and incomplete drying keep the spaces between toes warm and damp. Friction can crack the surface, while contact dermatitis may follow a new shoe, sock, detergent, or foot product. A skin yeast infection can cause a red, moist, sore rash. Psoriasis or eczema may be drier and may also affect the soles, hands, or other body sites. Scabies is considered when intense night-time itch affects other areas or household contacts.

Peeling, a soft white appearance, fissures, odour, blisters, or a spreading edge are useful details to record. The same symptom can have different causes, so a clinician may examine the feet and test scale when needed.

Wash gently, rinse well, and dry carefully between every toe. Change socks when damp, rotate shoes, and let footwear dry fully before wearing it again. Choose shoes with room for the toes and avoid picking at loose skin. Do not share towels, socks, or footwear.

A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether topical antifungal treatment fits the appearance. Use it as directed and do not mix several products without advice. Moisturiser can help dry areas, but avoid leaving a heavy occlusive layer between toes if that space is already moist.

Arrange a review if the problem lasts despite careful drying, returns often, affects both feet extensively, or involves nail changes. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, red streaks, fever, or rapidly worsening pain. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced immunity should seek advice early when skin breaks down.

Ask whether the appearance suggests fungus, eczema, or contact dermatitis; whether scale should be tested; how to clean footwear; and which product is safe around cracks.