What should you know about itching in under feet?

Peeling, scaling, cracking, or soft white skin between the toes often points toward moisture or a fungal problem. Dry, rough skin on the sole may be eczema or irritation from footwear and products. Tiny very itchy blisters can occur with some forms of eczema. Redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, or increasing tenderness raises concern for infection rather than simple dryness. Shoes, socks, communal floors, sweating, and harsh cleansers can all affect the skin, so the appearance and whether one or both feet are involved are useful details.

Wash gently and dry carefully, especially between the toes. Change damp socks, alternate shoes so they can dry, and choose breathable footwear. Use a plain moisturiser on dry sole skin but avoid applying thick moisturiser between the toes when that area stays damp. Do not share towels or footwear, and avoid scratching. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an antifungal or anti-inflammatory treatment fits the appearance; using the wrong cream can mask the problem.

Arrange an examination if the itch does not settle, keeps returning, or affects sleep, or if there is extensive scaling, fissuring, or nail change. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, marked swelling, severe pain, fever, or a wound that is slow to heal. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation should obtain advice early when the skin breaks.

Does this look like a fungal infection, eczema, or contact irritation? Should the skin be tested before treatment? How should I protect cracked skin and clean my footwear?