What should you know about dry skin of feet?

The soles carry pressure and may develop a thicker outer layer, while sandals, hot water, friction and dry air remove moisture. Cracks can form at the heels and may sting when walking. Scaling between the toes, strong itch or an unpleasant odour can suggest a different problem from simple dryness. Asteatotic eczema, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis can also cause dry or scaly skin, so persistent changes deserve assessment rather than repeated filing.

Check both feet and note the heel, sole, toe webs, nails and any areas of redness. People with reduced sensation, poor circulation or diabetes should seek tailored advice before treating cracks themselves.

Wash briefly with lukewarm water, use a mild cleanser and dry carefully, including between the toes. Apply a thick emollient to the heels and soles soon afterwards, but keep the toe webs dry unless a clinician advises otherwise. Wear well-fitting breathable footwear and clean socks. Do not cut thick skin with blades or aggressively file cracked heels. Emollient therapy may soften rough areas; stop any product that burns or causes a rash.

Arrange a review if cracks are deep, painful, bleeding, repeatedly reopening or not improving with gentle care. Seek prompt help for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, red streaks or rapidly increasing pain. Itchy scaling between the toes or nail changes may need a specific diagnosis. If sensation or circulation is reduced, have any open area assessed early because a small break in the skin may be harder to notice and heal.

Is this simple dryness, eczema or another cause of scaling? Which moisturiser is safe for my soles and heels? How should I protect a painful fissure? Do my circulation, sensation or medicines change the care plan?