Many people suffer with the annoyance of having their skin peel off the bottoms of their feet. But what causes it? Several causes for your peeling feet include dry skin, dead skin buildup, sunburn, fungal infection or other skin conditions. While many people can’t help but peel the flakes, it is best to leave them be. Peeling off these pieces of skin can cause irritation, bleeding and infection.
- Dry Skin – If dry skin is your problem, apply moisturizer on your feet twice a day. Ointments are creams tend to be more effective when compared to lotions. Directly after showering, apply the moisturizer on wet skin to better lock in moisture.
- Dead Skin – It’s normal for dead skin to fall off on a regular basis. If exfoliating is not part of your daily routine, your skin can get flaky- like your feet. Using a pumice stone or an exfoliating scrub can help. To use a pumice stone, soak your feet to first soften the skin then gently rub a wet pumice stone to remove dry and flaky skin. Always apply moisturizer after.
- Sunburn – If you got sunburn on your feet, treat it like any other area of the body. Apply aloe vera lotion. You can buy this product over the counter. Keep your feet well moisturized and avoid exposing your feet to the sun while they heal.
- Fungal Infection – Fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot can cause flaking, itching and peeling (especially between the toes.) Anti fungal creams can be an affective home remedy, but if initial at home treatment does not work- consult your doctor. If you also have diabetes or poor circulation see your doctor, because fungal infections can be very harmful.
- Skin Condition – If your skin peeling does not resolve from home treatment, or if you believe it is caused by a skin condition, see your doctor for evaluation and treatment advice.
Thank you to LIVESTRONG.com for the original information. You can read more here.