What should you know about extremely dry skin on feet?

Feet carry pressure and often have thicker skin, so dryness may feel rough, hardened, tight, or split at the heels. Long hot showers, harsh soap, open footwear, friction, and dry indoor air can worsen it. Asteatotic eczema, atopic dermatitis, or psoriasis may also present with dry scale or fissures. Itch, redness, blisters, or scaling between the toes suggests a different pattern that deserves attention.

Clean feet with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, then pat carefully dry, including between the toes. Apply a thick fragrance-free emollient to the heels and other dry areas soon afterwards, repeating when skin feels tight. Wear breathable socks and well-fitting footwear. Do not cut cracks, use sharp tools, or aggressively file sore skin. Keep moisturiser out of spaces between toes if those areas stay damp.

Seek medical advice for deep or painful cracks, bleeding, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or difficulty walking. Arrange an assessment when dryness returns repeatedly, affects both feet with marked itch, or does not improve with gentle care. If you have diabetes, reduced sensation, or circulation problems, ask for foot-care guidance early because a small fissure may need closer monitoring.

Is this simple dryness, eczema, psoriasis, or another foot condition? Which emollient is suitable for my heels? Should I change footwear or washing habits, and how should I protect a crack that is painful or open?