Eczema Rash on the Feet: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Lamar| The Foot Aftercare Institute
Jan 5
4 min read

Updated: Jan 8

Eczema rash is a broad term that covers various skin conditions characterised by itchy, inflamed, and red patches.

When these rashes appear on the feet, they can significantly disrupt daily comfort and activities.

The causes, symptoms, and severity of eczema rashes can vary widely, and often, many individuals remain unaware of their specific condition.

When to see a podiatrist

What Is an Eczema Rash?

In simple terms, eczema rash refers to itchy, inflamed, red, and dry patches of skin that can appear on any part of the body, including the feet.

Individuals with eczema often experience pruritus that can lead to scratching, resulting in further damage and discomfort.

Many individuals with foot eczema may misdiagnose their condition as athlete's foot, underscoring the importance of distinguishing between these conditions.

Eczema rash on feet showing inflamed skin.

What Causes Eczema Rashes on the Feet?

Understanding the triggers of foot eczema can be crucial for prevention and management. Here are some common causes:

Irritants: Soaps, synthetic socks, and harsh detergents can irritate the delicate skin on the feet.

Allergens: Substances such as nickel or rubber found in specific footwear can trigger allergic reactions, leading to eczema.

Sweat and Friction: Excessive sweating, combined with friction from shoes, can irritate and exacerbate existing eczema.

Genetics / Atopic History: A family history of eczema or other atopic conditions can increase susceptibility to foot eczema.

Contact with Certain Shoes or Foot Creams: Certain footwear materials or ingredients in foot creams may cause allergic reactions or irritation.

Friction from shoes

Common Types of Foot Eczema

Several types of eczema can affect the feet, and it's essential to recognise their characteristics:

Pompholyx (Dyshidrotic Eczema)

Itchy, fluid-filled blisters on the sides of the fingers, the palms, and the soles of the feet characterise this type.

These blisters can be painful and often require special treatment.

Atopic Dermatitis

This is the most common form of eczema. It presents as dry, itchy skin that can worsen over time.

Atopic dermatitis of the feet may lead to cracked or thickened skin, making walking uncomfortable.

Contact Dermatitis

This type occurs when the skin reacts to a specific irritant or allergen, such as certain soaps or fabrics. The reaction can manifest as redness, swelling, and itching.

Blisters on foot showing symptoms of pompholyx eczema. — Blisters on the foot showing symptoms of pompholyx eczema.

Eczema Rash vs. Athlete’s Foot

To help compare eczema rashes with athlete's foot, consider the following table:

Feature	Eczema Rash	Athlete's Foot
Causes	Irritants, allergens, genetics	Fungal infection
Appearance	Red, inflamed, dry patches	Red, scaly patches, sometimes peeling
Itching	Intense	Often Severe
Location	It can appear anywhere on the foot	Between toes and soles
Blisters	Common (especially in pompholyx	Rare
Response Treatment	May improve with moisturization	Antifungal medication is needed

By understanding these differences, you can more effectively identify your symptoms and seek appropriate treatment.

When to See a Podiatrist or Doctor

Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable in several situations:

Persistent or Worsening Rash: If the rash does not improve after a week or continues to worsen, it is time to seek help.

Blisters, Bleeding, or Infections: Any signs of blisters or bleeding should be evaluated to prevent infections.

Not Improving with OTC Creams: If over-the-counter creams or treatments do not provide relief, professional advice may be necessary.

How to Treat Eczema Rashes on the Feet

Managing eczema on the feet involves a few key practices:

Gentle Washing: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps to avoid further irritation.

Emollients & Barrier Creams: Regular application of emollients can help maintain skin hydration and protect it from irritants.

Avoiding Triggers: Avoid sweaty socks, harsh soaps, and known allergens to minimise flare-ups.

Possible Use of Topical Steroids: While it's essential to follow a doctor's advice regarding medication, topical steroids may be prescribed for severe cases to reduce inflammation.

Emollients & Barrier Creams

Eye-level view of various skincare products for eczema treatment — Skincare products designed to treat foot eczema.

Eczema Rash Recovery Tips

Successful recovery from eczema rashes on the feet depends significantly on proper care:

Keep Skin Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and apply moisturisers frequently throughout the day to maintain skin hydration. Apply Moisturisers
Footwear Choices: Opt for breathable shoes made from natural materials to reduce sweat and friction, and choose moisture-wicking socks. Footwear Choices

With appropriate knowledge and care, it is possible to manage eczema effectively, improving comfort and overall quality of life.