Dry feet: causes and care. Video
Dry skin of the feet can turn into a real problem. Itching, peeling and small cracks make it difficult to feel comfortable. The recommendations of experienced dermatologists will help to get rid of unpleasant symptoms, to make the feet and legs tender and soft.
Dry feet: tips for foot care
Dry feet can be caused by a variety of reasons.
Dermatologists identify several of the most common problems:
- dermatitis (contact, allergic, etc.)
- neurodermatitis
- ichthyosis
- dry seborrhea
A severe form of a disease requires serious treatment. If, in addition to dryness, you are tormented by pain, unbearable itching, sores or a rash, it makes sense to contact a specialist who will prescribe hormone therapy or physiotherapy.
But if your problem is limited to skin peeling, small cracks and irritation, try to deal with the problem at home.
Getting rid of dryness: the right treatment and care
A very common problem is neurodermatitis. It usually affects young people. With this disease, the skin of the legs and feet itches, becomes covered with flaky areas, and quickly turns red. Dermatologists recommend gentle means – salt baths or lotions from a decoction of chamomile, bay leaves and other soothing herbs. Mild antihistamines will also help, as well as a decoction of valerian or motherwort at night. Smear dry skin areas with glucocorticosteroid-based ointments.
A prerequisite is diet.
Exclude possible allergens from the menu:
- chocolate
- strawberries
- carbonated drinks
- coffee
- smoked meats
- honey
Be sure to drink vitamins A and E capsules. With an integrated approach, the problem of excessive dryness and soreness in the leg area is solved in 1-2 weeks.
Tempering and increasing immunity will help improve the condition of the skin.
The diet is also indicated for dermatitis of the legs. The aggravation of the problem often occurs in winter. The reason may be too low temperatures, dry air, improperly selected shoes and socks. Dermatologists advise replacing woolen socks and stockings with models made from a blend of cotton with modern elastic materials. If necessary, woolen products can be worn over a cotton layer. Bamboo fiber socks are suitable for particularly sensitive skin. Take care of your shoes too. It should be the right size for you and have a moisture-wicking insole.
There are special socks and tights with a moisturizing effect on sale. They are suitable for those who have to spend all day in closed shoes.
Dry skin of feet and legs needs careful daily care. Doctors recommend replacing regular soap with special washing emulsions for people with atopy and dermatitis. Apply a moisturizer with glycerin, lactic acid and emollients twice a day. Light products prepared with thermal water are also suitable. Give preference to creams from pharmacy brands, they do not contain fragrances and dyes.
During exacerbations, doctors do not recommend visiting the pools: chlorinated water can aggravate the problem. Avoid scrubs, hard washcloths, and brushes that can injure irritated skin. Some types of dermatitis can be treated with sunbathing. However, tanning salons are contraindicated for dry skin, they can cause severe irritation and itching.
Also interesting to read: Why diets don’t work?