Dermatitis on the Feet: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Treat It

Lamar| The Foot Aftercare Institute
Jan 5
5 min read

Updated: Jan 8

Dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that can affect various parts of the body, including the feet. It arises from an overactive immune response to irritants or allergens, leading to discomfort and visible symptoms. Understanding foot dermatitis can facilitate early detection and effective treatment. This blog will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for foot dermatitis, ensuring your feet remain healthy and comfortable.

What Is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is an umbrella term for skin inflammation caused by various triggers. Types of dermatitis include:

Eczema: A general term for various skin conditions causing inflammation and irritation.

Atopic Dermatitis: Associated with allergies and often seen in children.

Contact Dermatitis: Results from exposure to allergens or irritants.

Seborrheic Dermatitis: Affects oily areas of the body and can result in red, scaly patches.

Understanding these types can aid in identifying the specific form of dermatitis affecting your feet.

Asteatotic Eczema - marked by very dry, cracked skin due to loss of moisture, often worsened by cold weather and over-washing — Asteatotic Eczema - marked by dehydrated, cracked skin due to loss of moisture, often worsened by cold weather and over-washing

What Causes Dermatitis on the Feet?

Several factors can contribute to dermatitis on the feet:

Allergens or Irritants in Socks/Shoes: Materials such as latex or certain dyes used in footwear can trigger allergic reactions.
Sweat and Moisture Buildup: Feet often sweat, creating a moist environment that can irritate the skin and favour dermatitis.
Harsh Soaps and Detergents: Certain detergents or soaps can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Poor Foot Hygiene: Failure to keep feet clean and dry can exacerbate skin conditions and damage the skin barrier.
Underlying Skin Sensitivities or Autoimmune Factors: Individuals with a history of skin conditions may have feet that are more susceptible to dermatitis.

Identifying these causes can help you avoid triggers and manage symptoms effectively.

Common Symptoms of Foot Dermatitis

If you're experiencing dermatitis on your feet, you may notice several symptoms, including:

Itching: A common and often distressing symptom that can lead to scratching.

Redness: Skin may appear inflamed and sensitive.

Scaling: Dry patches can develop, indicating irritation.

Dryness: Skin can feel tight and uncomfortable.

Cracking: Severe dryness can lead to painful fissures.

Blisters: In some cases, you may notice small blisters that can ooze or crust over.

Flaking: Skin may shed, resulting in visible scales.

Skin Thickening or Darkening: Chronic dermatitis can lead to changes in skin texture and colour.

dry cracked skin on feet

Recognising these symptoms early can be crucial for effective treatment and management.

Dyshidrotic Eczema - characterised by small, itchy fluid-filled blisters on the feet, often triggered by stress, heat, or sweating — Dyshidrotic Eczema - characterised by small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the feet, often triggered by stress, heat, or sweating

Types of Dermatitis That Commonly Affect the Feet

Different types of dermatitis can specifically impact the feet:

Atopic Dermatitis: Often found in individuals with a history of allergies or in children. It appears red and itchy and may be associated with other skin conditions.
Contact Dermatitis: This type results from exposure to allergens (such as latex socks or leather dyes) or irritants. It can manifest as redness and blistering.
Dyshidrotic Eczema (Pompholyx): Characterised by small, itchy blisters that typically form on the sides of fingers and soles of the feet. Learn more about Dyshidrotic Eczema.
Nummular or Asteatotic Eczema: This form presents as coin-shaped patches of dry, flaky skin, often exacerbated by environmental factors.

!Eye-level view of feet with patches of dry skin

Identifying which type of dermatitis you may have can be helpful when seeking treatment and relief.

How to Treat Foot Dermatitis

Treating foot dermatitis involves several steps:

Remove Known Triggers: Start by changing socks or checking your detergent for potential irritants. Look for fragrance-free options.
Use Fragrance-Free Emollients or Urea Creams: These can help retain moisture and soothe irritated skin.
How to use urea cream properly
Cool Water Soaks or Compresses: Applying cool water can relieve itching and reduce inflammation.
Topical Corticosteroids: While effective, they should be used only under medical supervision to minimise side effects.
Barrier Creams & Moisturisers: Applying these regularly can help maintain skin hydration and protect against irritants.
soothing moisturising cream for sensitive feet

Following these steps can lead to significant improvement in symptoms and overall comfort.

A chronic inflammatory skin condition causing dryness, redness, and itching, commonly associated with eczema-prone skin

When to See a Podiatrist or Dermatologist

You should consider seeking professional help in the following situations:

Symptoms Worsen: If your symptoms progressively become more severe or painful.

Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, or discharge can indicate a skin infection.

Over-the-Counter Treatments Stop Working: If you don’t see improvements with topical treatments, a specialist can guide you on alternatives.

Chronic Recurring Flare-Ups: If dermatitis recurs, it may be beneficial to identify a long-term solution tailored to your specific needs.

Your healthcare provider can offer specialised treatment plans that address the underlying causes of your dermatitis.

When to see a podiatrist for foot problems

Final Tips for Foot Dermatitis Prevention

Preventative measures can help reduce the occurrence of dermatitis flare-ups:

Rotate Footwear: Give your feet a break from particular pairs of shoes to reduce irritation from extended wear.
Air Feet Daily: Try to keep your feet exposed to air as much as possible, particularly after prolonged use of socks or shoes.
Avoid Hot Water and Harsh Soaps: Use mild, moisturising soap and lukewarm water when washing your feet.
Use Daily Moisturiser: Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser to your feet as part of your daily routine.
Keep a Flare-Up Journal: Track when and where symptoms occur to identify potential patterns and triggers.

soothing moisturising cream for sensitive feet

By following these tips, you can help safeguard against foot dermatitis and promote healthier skin.

In summary, foot dermatitis can be a frustrating condition that significantly affects comfort and well-being. Understanding its causes, identifying symptoms, and knowing how to treat and prevent flare-ups are crucial steps to maintaining foot health. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for guidance. Your feet deserve the best care!