Peeling Feet Causes

For a proper understanding of peeling feet causes, you need to know the structural composition of the skin. There are basically three layers of the skin - the epidermis (the outer layer), the hypodermis (the inner layer), and the dermis (the middle layer).

Each of them have their own functions. After every few days, the outer layer of the skin exfoliates, which means the skin is removed from the surface. There are several reasons for skin exfoliation, like friction and hydration, and these are the most common causes of this condition on the feet and hands.

Many a time, it has been found that this is caused due to some underlying medical conditions, especially a condition called Athletes' foot. Though this is a temporary condition, it needs proper care and attention particularly when the condition is caused due to infection or a disease.

The following paragraphs would give you the most common causes besides the reasons for burning and itchy peeling skin.

Many a time, you may face burning sensation on your feet along with peeling away of skin. This is mainly caused due to dry skin, but there are times when deficit of certain nutrients in the body can cause this as well. Burning sensation caused due to flaking skin on hands and feet is mainly due to skin peeling at a faster rate than normal.

Moreover, wear and tear of the skin due to excessive pressure and exposure to extreme temperature also causes burning sensation. Excessive perspiration, skin infection, and sunburn are other causes accompanied by a sense of burning. In some cases, it can also happen due to hereditary conditions.

Skin Disorders - Some of the most common skin disorders, which cause skin to flake include erythroderma, scarlet fever, Kawasaki disease, eczema, and psoriasis.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis - This condition is accompanied by blisters on the feet, besides all over the body. As and when these blisters rupture, the skin peels off.

Allergy - If you are allergic to some medicines or beauty products, like detergents, soaps, etc., then you may face this condition wherein your feet may itch and the skin may be peeled off. Many people are allergic to specific foods like wheat and milk, and this may another reason for flaking skin.

Environmental Reasons - During extreme cold weather conditions, the skin dries and may peel off, which may be accompanied by itching.

Infections - Fungal infections, like Athletes' foot and jock itch can cause the skin to peel.

Immune System Disorders- Rare skin ailments, like toxic shock syndrome can cause this condition.

Cancer - Certain types of cancer, like non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, can cause skin rashes, which might cause the skin to peel. It could also be a side effect of the cancer treatments.

If you face this condition wherein your skin peels off, there is nothing to worry (of course that's only if there's no underlying medical condition). There are a few natural skin care products, which you can use at your home. One of the best home remedies is applying a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. You should apply this solution twice a day, and rinse your feet for fifteen minutes every day.

Another option you can use includes using diaper rash ointment. Any other antifungal powder will also do the trick. Tea tree oil is also good for your skin, as it is rich in antifungal properties.

If you find that the cause for this condition is fungal infection, you should take precautionary steps, like washing your feet regularly and keeping them clean and dry. Make sure you don't wear your shoes and socks till they are completely dry.

Tepid water is an excellent option you can use, and along with it you can use an oil rich in vitamin E. Apply this before you going to bed. Juice or pulp of cucumber is also useful, as it moisturizes the skin.

So, there can be several causes of peeling skin, and this is a common condition, which normally goes away after sometime. If, after using these home remedies, the condition does not subside, it's better to consult a professional so that you get proper attention.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.