Tips for Reviving Dry Feet

Scientists estimate that the human body is roughly 70% water. Combine that with the fact that all of the essential physical functions—digestion, breathing, muscle movement—require this valuable resource and it is easy to understand the importance of adequate hydration. Well, here’s another – excessively dry feet can cause bleeding, infection (which is a major risk for diabetic feet), and even pain, so you want to ensure proper moisture levels.

When it comes to remedies for dry skin, it is interesting to note that many can actually help you prevent this skin condition from arising in the first place. Some of the specific methods you might use include:

• Moisturize. Perhaps the most important remedy for your dry skin, the use of moisturizers can make a big difference. Start your path to moist skin at the store. Find a heavy, rich moisturizing cream or oil, or pick up some petroleum jelly. Apply your chosen moisturizer to the bottoms, tops, and heel areas of your feet as soon as you get out of the shower or bath (to trap in the moisture) and also before you go to bed at night.
• Drink lots of water. Your body hydrates itself from the inside out and you can assist the process by drinking 8 cups of water throughout the day. Make sure to space out those 64 ounces for maximum efficacy. (Actually, in the same spirt, what you eat makes a difference as well.)
• Limit time bathing. When you shower or bathe, you wash away oils and deplete your skin of moisture (which probably seems counterintuitive). In addition to watching the time, keep the temperature down because hot water dries out your skin.
• Choose the right soap. Harsh soaps contribute to excessive dryness, so pick mild, gentle cleansers or pick a body wash that has moisturizing agents.
• Restrict your time in the sun. UV light will sap your skin of the essential moisture it needs to prevent cracking or excessive dryness. If you are spending time outside, don’t forget to use sunscreen on your feet!
• Take advantage of our foot spa. One of the many services we are proud to provide at the Kansas Foot Center is our Piede Foot Spa. Instead of risking contracting a stubborn fungal infection at a traditional spa, you can pamper your feet in a clean and safe environment.

Whereas most cases of dry feet can be taken care of at home, don’t hesitate to contact us if you need professional care or have any questions on this subject. The Kansas Foot Center is here for all of your foot and ankle issues—including excessively dry skin—so give us a call at (866) 222-5177 or use our online form to request an appointment with any of our Wichita, Newton, or Emporia offices.