Feet and palm itching: what it can mean and what to do

Dry, cracked skin may point toward a weakened skin barrier. Redness or scaling after a new soap, glove, shoe, or cleaning product can fit contact dermatitis. Tiny deep blisters on the sides of fingers or feet can occur with dyshidrotic eczema. A fungal or yeast infection may cause scaling, moisture, or a defined edge, especially on the feet. Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, hives, scabies, and asteatotic eczema are other possibilities. A condition can present with itching without every classic sign being present.

Rinse gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and apply a fragrance-free moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. Avoid scratching, fragranced products, harsh detergents, and tight or non-breathable footwear. Keep feet dry and change socks when damp; do not share towels. Note where the itch began, whether it is worse at night, and any new products or medicines. A clinician can distinguish eczema from infection and choose treatment; avoid applying a steroid or antifungal product to an uncertain rash without advice.

Arrange a medical assessment if itching persists, keeps returning, spreads, disturbs sleep, or causes cracks and sores. Seek prompt care for increasing warmth, swelling, tenderness, pus, red streaking, fever, or rapidly worsening skin. Get urgent help for facial swelling, breathing trouble, faintness, or a widespread blistering rash.

Ask: Could this be eczema, contact irritation, or an infection? Which areas should I moisturise, and which products should I avoid? Do I need an examination or a skin sample? What changes should make me return sooner?