Why Are Your Child’s Feet Peeling?

Peeling skin on your child’s feet can be caused by a range of things ranging from dry skin or allergic reactions to a fungal infection or skin condition like eczema. In this brief article brought to you by Mountain Spring Podiatry, we detail some of these potential causes, but a podiatrist, or foot doctor, is best able to diagnose and treat your child’s condition. If you are looking for a licensed podiatrist in the area, you are welcomed to call Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule a convenient appointment. We are also happy to arrange an urgent walk-in appointment at one of our clinics.

Some common causes of feet peeling.

Dry skin is a notorious cause of peeling skin, particularly in the winter months when the air is dry. The skin on the feet is especially vulnerable because it is naturally thicker and less oily than the skin on other parts of the body. Further, people tend to wear thicker socks and closed-toe shoes during the winter, which can cause the feet to sweat and become more susceptible to dryness and peeling. Dehydration and hot showers can also dry out skin on the feet.

Speaking of sweaty socks and shoes, another common cause of peeling on feet is fungal infections. These are typically caused by a variety of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds which thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty socks and shoes as well as communal showers and swimming pools. The most common fungal infection of the feet is athlete’s foot which typically affects the skin between the toes but can also occur on the soles and sides of the feet.

Eczema on the feet can be another cause of flaking or peeling of the skin on the feet. The affected skin may be dry, scaly, and thickened, and it may crack or bleed in severe cases. The exact cause of foot eczema is not known, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The final cause of peeling skin we will mention here is allergic reactions, or contact dermatitis, which occur when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. Some common irritants that can cause contact dermatitis on the feet include certain fabrics, soaps, lotions, and perfumes. If you suspect that your child may have contact dermatitis on your feet, it is important to avoid the irritant or allergen that is causing the reaction.

Preventing peeling skin on the feet.

You can probably deduce from the information above how to prevent peeling skin on your child’s feet. Your child should:

• Keep their feet clean and dry.
• Moisturize regularly.
• Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and are made from breathable materials.
• Gently exfoliate the feet.
• Avoid irritants and allergens.

Treating your child’s peeling skin on the feet.

If you notice your child’s foot skin peeling excessively or it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, redness, or pain, it may be time to see a podiatrist in Gainesville. A podiatrist can help determine the underlying cause of the peeling and develop a treatment plan to address the issue. Residents in the area can call Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule an appointment with a licensed podiatrist today.