4 Home Remedies For Treating Dry Feet

Your feet are the only part of your body where you do not have oil glands, which is in large part why they always feel a little drier than the rest of your body. However, you feet do have lots of sweat glands that help keep your feet moisturized. Many individuals suffer from dry skin on their feet, which left untreated, can be extremely uncomfortable. Here are a few at-home remedies you can try to treat your dry feet.

#1 Stay Hydrated

One way to combat dry skin on your feet has nothing directly to do with your feet. Make sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day and stay hydrated. Staying hydrated will help your body combat your dry feet. 

#2 Use Mild Soaps

Another way to combat dry skin on your feet is to change the type of soap that you use in the shower. Don't use antibacterial soaps on your body and feet; these soaps tend to be harsher than most of your skin can handle. Use soaps that are made out of minimal, natural ingredients, such as oatmeal soap bars. Stick to soaps that are specifically labeled as natural, gentle or mild. This may not get rid of your dry skin on your feet altogether, but it should help to reduce the overall dryness. 

#3 Pamper Your Feet When You Get Out Of The Shower

When you get out of the shower or bath, take some time to pamper your feet. You should always apply lotion to your feet after you take a shower or bath. Make sure that you cover your entire feet in lotion, including in-between your toes and around your ankle. 

If you like to shower at night, rub some olive oil into your feet when you get out of your shower. Apply the olive oil generously to areas where your skin is cracking. Then, put on nice, thick socks. Wool socks work well because they lock in moisture. Keep the socks on as you sleep, and after a few days you should start to see the skin on your feet soften up.

#4 Soak Your Feet

Another way to break up the tough, dry skin on your feet is by soaking your feet in warm water and lemon juice. Use the juice from one or two lemons in a small tub of warm water. Keep your feet in the water until it starts to feel more lukewarm. Once you are done soaking your feet, use a soft foot brush to lightly scrub your feet and remove any dead skin from them. 

The acid in the lemon juice will help break down the dead and dry skin on your feet and make it easier for you to remove. This method works best if you don't have any cuts on your feet; if you do have cuts on your feet, the lemon juice could sting.

If these at-home remedies do not work well for you, or if you feel that you need additional medical advice about your condition, set up an appointment with a podiatrist, such as Robert A. Raley, DPM.