Mending Dry Skin this Winter

We all deal with dry skin from time to time, especially during these chilly winter months, and while it’s a common ailment it’s also one that can cause discomfort. Often times we overlook dryness in the feet, but we owe it to ourselves to understand the cause and take measures to remedy & prevent it. 

Causes for Dry Skin

Rough, cracked, and flaky skin on the feet can cause irritation and tenderness but why does this occur? Certain medical conditions like eczema and athlete’s foot can cause dryness and should be remedied using specialized prescribed or over-the-counter lotions. Cold weather, aging, and poor self-care like improper cleaning or footwear can also be common causes of dry skin. While dryness can be a nuisance, we recommend a few simple steps to repair the skin and minimize dryness from reoccurring.

The Balanced Solution

1. Indulge in a foot soak: Need a self-care night? Using a foot soak with warm water and Epsom salt is not only a great way to unwind, but to soften rough skin as well. Once your skin is softened, use a pumice or foot scrub to gently remove dead skin cells from the soles of your feet. Make sure to heal any cuts or cracks before attempting to exfoliate. 
2. Moisturize: Once you’ve exfoliated, massage a rich, preferably oil-based moisturizer into your feet. Try applying foot lotion or cream before bed and wear a cozy pair of socks to lock in moisture and ensure that your feet stay soft and smooth. 
3. Protect your feet: Your feet need to breathe! When overworn, constricting footwear can quickly lead to dryness. Try to wear comfortable shoes that are made of breathable materials like leather, mesh, or canvas. 
4. Stay hydrated: If we’re dehydrated, chances are our skin is too! Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure proper hydration in the skin and to prevent chronic dryness in the future.

Once you’ve taken steps to heal your feet, be sure to routinely care for them to prevent dryness from returning. Some preventative measures include wearing socks regularly to protect your feet, avoiding hot water that can strip your skin of natural oils, and using foot care products. If you’re unsure where to find quality foot care products, take a look at some of the premium products that we have to offer in our shop.  

 It may take some consistency and effort, but following these steps will help get your feet feeling and looking their best. If dry or cracked skin becomes a repeated issue, even after self-care and prevention, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule an appointment.