This article will help you learn about the common causes, signs and symptoms, and treatment options available for peeling skin on the feet.
What Could Be Causing Your Feet To Peel?
Peeling Skin Syndrome (PSS), or the condition of severe skin peeling on feet, is a group of rare inherited skin disorders in which the normal ongoing process of invisible peeling of the outermost skin layer is intensified. The characteristic features of this condition include continuous, spontaneous, and painless peeling of the skin that occurs due to the separation of the outermost skin layer from the layers lying below it.
1. Genetic Defects
A major cause of peeling skin on feet is genetic defects present in several distinct genes. The genes that cause peeling skin syndrome due to their malfunctioning are TGM5, CHST8, FLG2, CSTA, SERPINB8, and CDSN. Other unknown genes may also play a part in the development of this skin condition.
2. Environmental Causes
Apart from the genetic defects, environmental factors also play a role in worsening skin peeling on the feet and toes. Your feet undergo a lot of strain every day. Right from remaining stuffed inside shoes for long hours to coming in contact with contaminated surfaces, they face several conditions that may trigger excessive skin peeling on feet. Some of the environmental causes that aggravate peeling skin on feet and toes include exposure to heat, friction, humidity, sweat, and other sources of moisture. Under such conditions, the skin may temporarily become red and itchy, but they heal without any scarring. Skin peeling on the hands and feet is undesirable, and no one wants to deal with it. But to be able to treat this condition, you must first learn to identify its signs and symptoms. Let us take a look at how you can recognize this skin issue.
Symptoms Of Peeling Feet
Peeling Skin Syndrome is a genetic skin condition that develops at birth or during the early stages of infancy. It starts with the peeling or shedding of the external or outermost layer of the skin. However, the development of symptoms is not limited to birth and early childhood. This means symptoms leading to peeling skin on hands and feet can develop at any age. It can even develop in adults. In certain types of this syndrome, the skin peeling takes place without causing any pain or any other symptoms to the individual. But in some other cases, this skin condition is marked by several symptoms. As such, Peeling Skin Syndrome is classified as non-inflammatory (type A) or inflammatory (type B). The symptoms of this skin condition may vary from individual to individual and range from severe to mild. Some of the common signs and symptoms of peeling skin syndrome include the following:
Rednessof the skin Continuous peelingof the outer layer of the skin Itching Darkening of skinpatches (hyperpigmentation) Blisters Skin fragility Burning sensation on the feet Short stature Formation of new hairthat needs less effort to be plucked out than normal hair Flare-ups of foot and hand eczema Juvenile plantar dermatosis(chronic dry skin on children’s feet) Scarlet fever(in case of an acutely unwell child) Kawasaki disease(rarely)
Learn how to treat peeling skin on the feet in the next section.
When And How To Treat Peeling Skin On The Bottom Of Feet
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may take care of your feet through home treatment or opt for medical assistance.
I. At-Home Treatments
Here are some of the home care procedures that you can follow to keep the skin peeling on your feet under control. But, remember that these solutions will work depending on the cause and severity of your condition.
Keep your feet sufficiently moisturized. You can use a thick moisturizer for this purpose. Look for moisturizers containing ceramides, propylene glycol, urea, glycolic acid, and lactic acid. If you have athlete’s foot (fungal infection on the feet), you can apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream to get relief. If you experience no relief in 3-4 weeks, consult a dermatologist. In the case of blisters, ensure to cover them and keep them dry and clean. You can use Band-Aids for this purpose. Avoid wearing shoes if you feel that it will create friction with the blisters. Try to keep your feet dry and clean as much as possible. Do not risk walking barefoot on any surface that may be contaminated. Wear socks or slippers at home. If your feet develop calluses, consult a dermatologist and get it treated. Apply an oatmeal scrubto remove dead skin from your feet. Soak your feet in a solution of Epsom salt and water, then gently brush off the dead cells using a foot brush or pumice stone. Try to keep an eye on what triggers the skin condition. Keep your feet away from harsh detergents or harsh cleansers.
II. Medical Treatments
When you opt for medical treatment to deal with dry peeling skin on your feet, it will involve a two-step procedure. The first step is medical diagnosis of the skin condition, and the second step is an appropriate course of action for treatment.
Diagnosis
Generally, Peeling Skin Syndrome is diagnosed with the help of scrutiny of the symptoms and clinical examinations. Sometimes, specialized tests may also be required to evaluate the condition. Such tests help to distinguish PSS from other skin issues, such as Netherton syndrome.
Standard Therapies
The main focus of treating this skin syndrome is the management of the symptoms. The aim is to avoid skin damage while providing relief from the symptoms. The common method followed for treating this skin condition is to apply skin softening ointments. These ointments are often prescribed to be applied after a bath when the skin is still moist. Vaseline and plain petroleum jelly are also recommended for treating this condition. Along with these, individuals are also asked to avoid triggers that may aggravate the issue, such as heat, humidity, sweat, water, and other factors. You may seek professional guidance from a dermatologist to deal with this issue. Besides PSS, your skin could also be peeling due to some other reasons. Learn all about them in the next section. [Read: Wrinkles Around The Mouth]
Other Reasons Your Feet Are Peeling And How To Fix Them
If your feet have suddenly started peeling, you need to explore the root cause of the issue before taking any remedial steps. Here are some of the common reasons your feet may be peeling excessively:
1. Fungal Infections
A fungal infection can cause your feet to peel. For instance, if you have athlete’s foot, you may just be experiencing peeling of the skin but no itchiness. As such, you may not even doubt that it is a fungal infection. Consult a dermatologist to treat the infection as it recurs if not treated appropriately and is contagious.
2. Dry Skin
A major cause of your feet feeling flaky and itchy could be dryness. Yes, if your feet are excessively dry and lack natural oils, it can lead to such skin problems. You may also experience cracked and peeling soles. This is an indication to take good care of your skin in general and your feet in particular. A good foot cream with excellent moisturizing properties can help you out in this case. You can also visit a dry skin care specialist to get your feet treated properly.
3. Sunburn
Most people remember to apply sunscreen on their faces and hands when stepping out. But, their feet are often forgotten in such cases. Exposing your feet to the harsh rays of the sun may cause itching and uncontrollable peeling. To overcome this issue, you can apply an aloe vera-based lotion to soothe your skin and get relief from the itching. You can also apply a moisturizing cream to reduce the peeling. Always use a sunscreen.
4. Humid Workout Sessions
Sometimes, foot infections and peeling of skin can develop when you spend a considerable amount of time in a humid environment, such as a gym. On top of that, if you work out barefoot or share the same yoga mat with someone else, your feet may catch a fungal or bacterial infection. To steer clear of such issues, wear socks that wick away sweat and absorb moisture. Also, try to keep your feet clean and sweat-free at all times.
5. Eczema
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause your feet to become red, dry, and itchy. This can lead to the development of warts and sores along with peeling of the skin. In such a case, you must consult a dermatologist to get proper treatment.
6. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become red, dry, patchy, and scaly. It may also cause the skin on your feet to peel. This inflammatory skin condition requires proper treatment to get rid of the scaly and dry plaques and to reduce the skin peeling. It is best to seek medical help to treat this skin problem. Check out the next section to learn when to see a doctor.
When To See A Doctor
While peeling skin on the soles and feet usually does not cause any pain, sometimes the issue can turn into a major cause of concern. You need to consult and a doctor if you experience one or more of the issues mentioned below:
Numbness or pain in the feet. The symptoms persist for a long time. One or both of your feet develop acute pain that causes trouble when you walk. Symptoms of infection of any kind, including fever. An external object, such as a piece of wood or glass, is stuck in your foot. You suffered an injury to your foot by stepping on something sharp and have not taken a shot of tetanus recently. You suspect you have psoriasis.
Does diabetes make your feet peel? Yes, diabetes may result in skin manifestations like dry, thick, and scaly skin. Consult your doctor for further information and treatment (6), (7). Do foot peel socks work? Anecdotal evidence suggests that exfoliating socks may work. This is because these socks contain chemical solutions like glycolic acid that help in removing dead skin, leaving your feet soft and healthy. It may take a few days before you see visible results. However, if you have skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, consult your doctor before using these socks. What happens if you leave a foot peel on too long? Leaving a foot peel on for too long may result in an allergic reaction. Ensure that you follow the label instructions to avoid this. How long does foot peel last? A foot peel commonly lasts between a week to two weeks to allow your skin to peel completely. However, the time may vary from person to person.
