What should you know about hard itchy skin on feet?

Thick cracking on the heels often follows dry skin and repeated friction. Scaling between the toes, peeling, or a burning itch can occur with a fungal infection. Redness after new shoes, socks, detergents, or foot products can suggest contact dermatitis. Eczema may cause dry, inflamed patches, while psoriasis can produce well-defined thicker areas and may also affect nails. Moist red skin in a fold can occur with a skin yeast infection. A diagnosis cannot be made from hardness alone.

Wash gently, dry carefully between the toes, and apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to dry areas, avoiding application between moist toes. Choose breathable footwear, change damp socks, and avoid walking barefoot in shared wet areas. Do not cut thick skin with blades or use strong acids without advice, especially if you have diabetes, reduced sensation, or poor circulation. A clinician or pharmacist can recommend treatment matched to the cause.

Arrange an assessment if itching continues, cracks keep reopening, nails change, or the rash spreads despite basic care. Seek prompt medical attention for increasing warmth, swelling, pus, red streaks, fever, or a wound that is not healing. People with diabetes, reduced circulation, or reduced foot sensation should seek advice early when cracks or sores appear.

Could this be [Asteatotic Eczema](/conditions/asteatotic-eczema/), [Contact Dermatitis](/conditions/contact-dermatitis/), [Psoriasis](/conditions/psoriasis/), or a [Skin Yeast Infection](/conditions/cutaneous-candidiasis/)? Should the nails or skin be tested? Which moisturizer or medicine is suitable for my feet?