Dry skin often appears on the heels and sides of the feet and between the toes. It may make the affected area feel itchy, tight, and even painful. Although this may be irritating, it is rarely harmful.

Simple foot soaks, moisturizers, and regular exfoliation can reduce dry skin on the feet, remove areas of dead skin and calluses, and prevent them from returning.

In this article, we look at the causes and treatment of dry, cracked, or scaly skin on the feet.

Causes

Regularly applying moisturizer to the feet can help prevent dry skin.

The following everyday factors may cause dry skin on the feet:

• A lack of moisture. Dry, cracked, and flaking skin is especially common on the heel and sole because these areas have fewer oil glands than skin elsewhere on the body.
• Irritation. Standing for too long or wearing poorly fitting shoes can put constant pressure on specific areas of the feet or cause friction of the skin. As a result, these areas of the feet may become dry, calloused, or cracked.
• Heat and humidity. Closed shoes, such as sneakers and boots, create an extremely hot and humid environment for the feet. Heat and humidity draw moisture from the skin, which can lead to dry, thick, or cracked areas on the feet.
• Soaps. Soaps and body washes that contain harsh chemicals or irritants can strip moisture from the skin. Failing to wash excess soap off the feet can also cause these problems.
• Aging. Over time, the skin loses its ability to retain water, becoming thinner and less plump. Older people may be more likely to experience dry skin as a result of the natural aging process.
• Medications. Certain medications, including diuretics, can cause dry skin on the feet.

Dry skin on the feet may also occur as a result of a medical condition, such as:

• Athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes a scaly rash between the toes and underneath the foot.
• Eczema. Eczema refers to a group of conditions that cause skin inflammation. People can develop eczema anywhere on their bodies. Common symptoms of eczema include dry, crusty, or itchy patches of skin.
• Psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes thick, scaly patches of skin. People can develop psoriatic patches almost anywhere on their body, including their feet.
• Hypothyroidism. People with hypothyroidism may develop extremely dry feet because their thyroid gland cannot regulate the sweat glands in the feet, which can lead them to become dry.
• Diabetes. Living with uncontrolled diabetes may result in damage to the peripheral nerves, which is called neuropathy. Neuropathy can affect the nerves that regulate oil and moisture in the feet, which can cause the feet to become dry or cracked.

Treatments and remedies

Dead cells on the surface of the skin naturally fall off, and new cells take their place. When a person does not remove the buildup of dead skin cells, they can form thick, flaky patches on the feet.

Over time, dry areas can become thick or cracked, especially on the heels. Cracked heels make the feet vulnerable to infection, while thick calluses can make walking difficult or uncomfortable.

In the following section, we discuss five of the best ways to treat dry skin and remove dead skin from the feet.

1. Exfoliate

Exfoliation involves removing dead surface-layer skin using either a physical or chemical exfoliator.

Physical exfoliators include:

• foot scrubs
• body brushes
• electronic callus removers

People can buy foot scrubs or make their own at home by mixing honey, warm water, and sugar.

Chemical exfoliators take the form of lotions or thin liquids. They contain ingredients that dissolve dead cells on the surface of the skin, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, and alpha-hydroxy acid.

Foot peels are popular chemical exfoliators that manufacturers have designed specifically for the feet. Some foot peels contain artificial fragrances and alcohols that can irritate sensitive skin, so it is important to check the list of ingredients for any potential allergens or irritants before buying a foot peel.

For a gentler foot peel, people can use chemical exfoliators that the label describes as being suitable for facial use.

People can choose between brands of exfoliating product online:

2. Foot soak

A person can add different ingredients, such as oatmeal or Epsom salt, to a foot soak.

Soaking the feet in warm water helps soothe and loosen dry skin while improving blood circulation to the feet, which can help prevent dry skin in the future.

Adding a small amount of vinegar to a foot soak may help treat mild forms of athlete’s foot. Vinegar has powerful antimicrobial properties that may help disinfect the feet and even eliminate foot odor.

Learn more about vinegar foot soaks here.

Other beneficial ingredients to consider adding to a foot soak include:

• Epsom salt
• honey
• oatmeal
• lemon juice
• peppermint essential oil

3. Pumice stone or foot file

People can use a pumice stone or metal foot file to remove dry skin and calluses from the feet.

They can do this by following the steps below:

1. Soak the feet in warm water to soften the dead skin.
2. Wet the pumice stone or foot file with warm water.
3. Gently rub the pumice stone or foot file over the dead skin or callus. Use circular motions with a pumice stone and gentle back-and-forth motions with a foot file.
4. Rinse the dead skin off the feet. Repeat step three as necessary.
5. Pat the feet dry with a clean towel.
6. Moisturize the feet with cream, lotion, or oil.

People can buy pumice stones in drug stores or choose between brands online.

4. Moisturize

Regularly moisturizing the feet will help reduce existing dry skin and prevent new dry skin from accumulating. Moisturizing the feet after using an exfoliator or a pumice stone will help the skin lock in moisture.

It is best to avoid lotions, creams, and moisturizers that contain alcohol, added fragrances, and artificial colors as these ingredients can worsen dry skin.

Instead, a person should look for products that contain:

• humectants, such as urea, aloe, and hyaluronic acid
• emollients, which include plant-based butter and oil
• occlusives, such as petrolatum, lanolin, and coconut oil

5. Wear moisturizing socks to bed

For extra hydration, a person can try using moisturizing gel-lined socks. These are available to purchase online, or people can create their own.

Gel-lined socks contain natural oils and vitamins that help hydrate and repair dry skin on the feet. The individual just needs to slip on a pair and wear them around the house for a few hours. Afterward, they can place the socks in the washing machine and let them air-dry.

People can get similar results using their usual moisturizer and a good pair of cotton socks. At bedtime, they can apply a generous amount of moisturizer to the feet before slipping on a pair of breathable, cotton socks. In the morning, they should remove the socks and rinse the feet.

Prevention

Wearing shoes that fit properly can support healthy feet.

People can use the following tips to help prevent dry skin on their feet:

• practicing proper foot hygiene, which includes thoroughly cleaning the feet, removing dead skin, and keeping the skin hydrated with a good moisturizer
• avoiding lotions, soaps, and body washes that contain alcohol, added fragrances and colors, and other potential irritants
• using warm, rather than hot, water for showers, baths, and foot soaks
• wearing shoes that fit correctly
• instead of vigorously rubbing the feet after a shower, gently patting them dry with a clean towel

Summary

Wearing the wrong shoes or spending too much time standing can result in dry, itchy feet and areas of irritated or scaly skin. Without treatment, dry skin can thicken and crack open, leaving the feet vulnerable to infection.

People can use pumice stones, exfoliators, and foot soaks to remove dry skin from their feet at home. Regularly applying moisturizer and removing dead skin will help keep the feet healthy and hydrated.

Certain medical conditions, such as eczema, hypothyroidism, and diabetes, can cause very dry skin on the feet.

People who have severely dry skin on their feet might want to consider contacting a specialist foot doctor called a podiatrist or another healthcare professional to discuss possible treatment options.

In this article, learn about a variety of ways to help reduce the appearance of acne scars and promote healthy skin.

Home remedies

Various remedies are available over the counter, many of which can help people manage their acne and reduce the appearance of scars.

Salicylic acid

Acne is a common skin complaint, with many people experiencing acne scarring.

Salicylic acid is a naturally occurring compound that is often an ingredient in acne skin care products. Salicylic acid helps clear dirt, skin cells, and other debris that leads to acne from the pores of the skin.

It also helps reduce swelling and redness in the area, which may minimize the appearance of scarring.

Salicylic acid is beneficial for all scar types. It makes a good addition to a daily skin care routine for most people who live with acne.

People with sensitive skin may need to test a product containing this acid on a small area of skin before using it on their entire face, as it may cause dryness or irritation.

Retinoids

Some topical retinoids may help get rid of acne scars. As the authors of a review in the journal Dermatology and Therapy note, topical retinoids block inflammation, reduce acne lesions, and speed up cell regeneration.

The authors also state that retinoids could help lighten hyperpigmented acne scars, including those in people with darker skin tones.

It is important to note that retinoids can make the skin sensitive to the sun. Anyone using retinoids for acne or scar treatment should wear sunscreen when going outdoors.

Alpha hydroxy acids

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can help get rid of dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Doctors may recommend AHAs for treating acne and reducing the appearance of acne scars.

AHAs are a mild form of acid that scrapes away the outer layer of skin to reveal fresh, new skin underneath. This process may help with discoloration due to scarring.

Lactic acid

Lactic acid can act as a gentle peel to pull away dead skin cells. It may help reduce the appearance of scars and smooth the overall texture of the skin.

Lactic acid may also help lighten dark scar tissue, although it sometimes causes hyperpigmentation. Due to this possible adverse effect, it is best to test products that contain lactic acid on a small patch of skin before using them to treat acne scarring.

Many products for acne contain lactic acid. It is also present in diluted apple cider vinegar, which makes for a more natural, cost-effective treatment.

Natural remedies

Many people use natural remedies to help clear up acne scars, but the science behind them is unclear. Some may cause further irritation or other problems so people should use them with caution.

Home remedies that people have traditionally used to treat acne scars include:

Medical treatments

Several medical treatments are available to help reduce acne scars. A dermatologist may recommend different procedures depending on a person’s skin type and the extent of the scarring.

Medical treatments for acne scars include:

Chemical peels

A dermatologist can recommend medical treatments for acne scarring.

A dermatologist can recommend a type of peel that is suitable for a person’s skin type, acne severity, and scarring.

The authors of a 2017 review on treatments for acne scarring note a study that found that six of 10 participants using a specific type of chemical peel called trichloroacetic acid (TCA) had at least a 70-percent improvement in their acne scarring.

Other chemical peels may be less effective. For instance, 25 percent of those who used glycolic acid did not see any reduction in the appearance of scars.

A person may need to try different types of peel to determine which one works for them.

Injections

Injections of corticosteroids may help with the treatment of raised acne scar tissue if a person has either hypertrophic or keloid scars.

The treatment typically consists of a series of injections. A dermatologist can do these injections in their office once every few weeks, monitoring the results.

Dermal filler

In some cases, dermatologists may recommend using soft tissue fillers to reduce the appearance of scars.

Dermatologists may choose a filler that consists of a collagen-based product, which may require allergy testing. Alternatively, removing fat from another part of the body to use may be an option. They can also use other commercial fillers, such as polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), hyaluronic acid (HA), and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA).

Dermal fillers work best for atrophic scars, but many are temporary. Treatment typically lasts between 6 and 18 months.

There are some permanent options, however, that a person can discuss with their dermatologist.

Microneedling

Microneedling is the process of inserting tiny needles into the skin surrounding the scar to stimulate the body to make more collagen. This collagen may reduce the appearance of acne scars by smoothing out the skin.

In a 2017 review, microneedling provided an improvement of 31 to 62 percent in the appearance of acne scars.

However, microneedling can cause side effects. Many people experience redness, pain, and inflammation after the treatment, but these effects subside over time.

Laser treatment

Laser treatment resurfaces the skin without the use of chemicals or scrubs. It removes the uppermost layer of skin to reveal the younger skin cells underneath, which can help reduce the appearance of scarring.

Laser treatment is not suitable for everyone, however, as its success is mostly dependent on the acne scarring that a person has and their skin type. The treatment may also cause a reaction in some people, especially those with sensitive skin.

Types of acne scar

Some treatments are more effective for specific types of acne scars.

Suitable treatment options may vary slightly depending on the type of scarring that acne has caused. There are three types of acne scars:

• Atrophic scars: These scars appear as small indentations in the skin. They occur when the skin does not make enough fibroblasts in the healing process. Fibroblasts are cells that play a crucial role in wound healing and the synthesis of collagen.
• Hypertrophic scars: These occur when the skin makes too many fibroblasts as the acne spot heals, causing a raised scar.
• Keloid scars: These are similar to hypertrophic scars but are typically much thicker than the original acne spot. They are usually darker than the surrounding skin and can be red or brown. Keloid scars may also cause symptoms, such as itchiness or pain.

Summary

Acne scars can be an unwanted reminder of acne and may reduce self-esteem in some people, but they do not have to be permanent.

Many people have success using one or more home remedies. In cases of stubborn scarring, receiving medical treatments in the dermatologist’s office can also help get rid of acne scars.

The home remedies that we list in this article are available for purchase online:

Causes of dandruff include:

• seborrheic dermatitis
• dry skin
• allergic reactions to hair and skin products
• other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis
• diet
• overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia

There are many over-the-counter (OTC) topical medications and special shampoos that treat dandruff. However, people can also help eliminate dandruff at home using the natural remedies below.

1. Tea tree oil

A person should dilute tea tree oil before use.

Tea tree oil is an essential oil that comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant. Historically, people have used tea tree oil to treat a variety of conditions, such as acne, athlete’s foot, and dermatitis.

Tea tree oil contains a compound called terpinen-4-ol, which possesses powerful antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oils containing high concentrations of terpinen-4-ol may help reduce dandruff by suppressing the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp.

The authors of a 2018 study examined the bacterial composition of 140 Indian women’s scalps and discovered that women with dandruff tended to have more Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) bacteria than those without dandruff.

A review from 2017 examined the antimicrobial effects of various essential oils. The authors suggested that the compounds in tea tree oil may effectively control S. epidermidis bacteria.

Applying tea tree oil directly on the scalp can cause inflammation or rashes, so people interested in using tea tree oil to treat dandruff can start by adding a few drops to their regular shampoo.

Alternatively, shampoos containing tea tree oil are available in some drug stores and online.

2. Lemongrass oil

Traditionally, people have used lemongrass and lemongrass oil to treat digestive issues, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress.

Lemongrass oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce dandruff symptoms.

According to the findings of a small study published in 2015, hair tonics containing 10 percent lemongrass oil reduced dandruff by 81 percent after two weeks.

Like tea tree oil, lemongrass oil may cause irritation or allergic reactions if a person applies it directly to the skin. People can dilute lemongrass oil with water or mix a few drops into their regular shampoo or conditioner.

People can purchase lemongrass oil at health food stores and online.

3. Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera is a succulent plant known for its healing properties. The gel in its leaves contains several bioactive compounds, such as amino acids and antioxidants, that may reduce dandruff.

Authors of a 2019 review examined 23 clinical trials involving Aloe vera. The findings of these studies suggest that aloe vera gel may improve moisture retention in the skin and promote wound healing. Aloe vera may also reduce inflammation, which can help people with dandruff symptoms, such as itchiness.

Research from 2015 suggests that the antifungal and antibacterial properties of Aloe vera may prevent dandruff.

The authors of a small study involving 25 people concluded that a new topical gel containing Aloe vera was effective in treating a form of dandruff called seborrheic dermatitis.

People can use aloe vera gel directly from the plant, or purchase the gel online.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 supplements can help improve skin and hair health.

Omega-3 fatty acids may lower blood pressure, increase “good” HDL cholesterol levels, and support heart and brain health. A deficiency in this fatty acid can result in adverse symptoms, such as dandruff, brittle nails, and dry skin.

Omega-3s provide several skin benefits, such as

• managing oil production
• regulating inflammation
• improving hydration
• reducing signs of aging

Foods containing large quantities of omega-3s include salmon, mackerel, and walnuts. People can also take omega-3 supplements.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommend that most adults consume 1.1 to 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day.

Omega-3 fatty acids are available in pharmacies, health food stores, and online.

5. Aspirin

Aspirin is an OTC pain reliever that could potentially reduce dandruff symptoms. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, an active ingredient commonly used in dandruff shampoos.

Salicylic acid can help exfoliate excess dandruff flakes, prevent oil buildup, and reduce inflammation on the scalp.

To use salicylic acid on dandruff, try crushing one or two uncoated aspirin tablets into a fine powder and mixing the power with a dollop of regular shampoo.

In the shower, apply the mixture to the hair and leave it there for a few minutes before rinsing it out.

People can buy aspirin in pharmacies and online.

6. Baking soda

Sodium bicarbonate, which many people know as baking soda, may help reduce dandruff. Baking soda is an exfoliant that can remove excess skin cells and oil on the scalp.

Baking soda also possesses antifungal properties that may help fight the fungus responsible for dandruff.

Baking soda has a very high pH level, which can damage the scalp if a person uses it too frequently. Using too much baking soda can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can cause dryness or irritation, so people should use it in moderation.

Baking soda is available in most grocery stores, health food stores, and online.

7. Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that supports the body’s immune system and promotes cell growth. People can get zinc from animal proteins, nuts, and whole grains.

According to the NIH, severe zinc deficiencies have been associated with hair loss, diarrhea, impotence, and skin lesions.

A comprehensive review from 2016 lists zinc deficiency as a potential contributing factor for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

Many dandruff shampoos contain zinc pyrithione because it prevents fungal growth and removes excess skin cells from the scalp.

People can purchase zinc supplements in drug stores and online.

8. Coconut oil

Coconut oil can help hydrate a dry scalp.

Coconut oil may help improve hydration, reduce irritation, and prevent fungal growth on the scalp.

Findings from a test tube study found that cultured coconut extract lowered inflammatory markers in human skin samples. Another study observed similar anti-inflammatory properties after applying virgin coconut oil to artificial skin samples.

According to the findings of one clinical trial, applying virgin coconut oil to the skin led to a 68.23 percent decrease in atopic dermatitis symptoms in a group of 117 children aged 1 to 13 years old.

These preliminary studies show promising results, but researchers need to carry out more investigations to evaluate the role of coconut oil in treating dandruff.

People can try applying coconut oil directly to the scalp before washing it out or find a shampoo that contains coconut oil.

Coconut oil is available for purchase in grocery stores, health food, and online.

9. Dietary changes

Food can have dramatic effects on the body. Food may not be the root cause of dandruff, but it may make symptoms worse.

There is currently little research on how food affects dandruff. However, a growing body of research suggests an association between diet and inflammatory skin disorders, such as seborrheic dermatitis.

Fruits and vegetables contain many essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

The results of a recent observational study involving 4,379 people showed that individuals who reported eating more fruits were less likely to have seborrheic dermatitis.

The results also suggest that typical Western diets may increase the risk of seborrheic dermatitis in females.

A 2018 review showed that a biotin deficiency could lead to several skin disorders, including seborrheic dermatitis. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, plays a role in supporting healthy hair, nails, and skin. Biotin-rich foods include:

• liver
• egg yolks
• nuts
• salmon
• nutritional yeast

10. Reduce stress

Stress plays a significant role in a person’s overall health. Prolonged stress can cause increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation.

Although stress may not directly cause skin disorders, it can worsen or trigger existing ones.

A Japanese study published in 2014 examined the relationship between anxiety-induced stress and atopic dermatitis. The participants with atopic dermatitis reported higher levels of anxiety than those without the condition.

Summary

Dandruff is a skin condition that causes itchy, flaky skin on the scalp. This condition can impact a person’s self-esteem and overall quality of life.

While few research studies have specifically examined the effects of natural remedies for dandruff, many of these remedies have positive anecdotal evidence.

Not all home remedies will work for everyone. Anyone with an underlying skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis, may wish to speak to a doctor before trying a new natural remedy.

Acne can be a source of irritation for people of all ages, and new natural ways to fight acne are always welcome.

There is some evidence to suggest that CBD oil can be beneficial for acne and other skin conditions. Some people apply CBD topically to the breakouts themselves, while others take it orally for long-term prevention.

Can CBD oil treat acne?

CBD oil may help prevent acne breakouts.

There is some evidence to suggest that CBD oil may be helpful for acne. What that means may vary slightly in each case, based on what kind of acne a person has and what is causing it.

CBD oil may help reduce various types of acne thanks to its ability to adjust how the body creates sebum. Sebum is a waxy, oily substance the skin makes. CBD oil also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Acne is the most common skin condition in humans. Most people deal with acne at some point in their lives, be it occasionally or on a daily basis

Sebum helps protect our skin from the outside world. However, it can mix with dead skin cells, dirt, or other pollutants and become trapped inside a pore. This clogged pore then becomes acne.

Many factors influence acne, including excess sebum production, hormonal imbalances, and genetics. Some other factors, such as diet, stress levels, and some medications, may also increase the severity of a person’s symptoms.

A 2014 study explored the effects of CBD on human sebocytes, which are the cells that create sebum. The researchers found that the CBD prevented these cells from creating too much of the oily sebum.

They also revealed that the CBD oil triggered an anti-inflammatory reaction in the cells and prevented inflammatory cytokines from activating. Cytokines may trigger acne, so reducing them may help prevent further breakouts.

A 2016 review of the cannabis plant highlighted its antibacterial and antifungal effects. These effects may help reduce infections from dirt and other pollutants on the skin.

While the initial results from these studies are promising, human trials are still lacking. For doctors to recommend CBD oil or cannabis products as part of an anti-acne skincare routine, studies in humans will need to provide direct evidence.

How to use

To use CBD oil on the skin, simply mix it with a carrier oil and apply it directly. It is important to start by using a carrier oil that works with the person’s skin. Carrier oils include:

Taking oral CBD may also help with acne in some cases, as the anti-inflammatory compounds are still active when they enter the body.

However, studies exploring CBD and the skin have applied CBD directly to the sebum-creating cells of the skin, so topical application may be best.

There are also many topical products containing CBD available for purchase online. However, people should check the other ingredients in the product to avoid exposure to harsh or irritating ingredients.

It is also vital to ensure that the distributor has conducted third-party laboratory tests to confirm the product’s CBD content.

In 2017, researchers tested 84 different consumer products containing CBD and found that 26 percent of them contained less CBD than the label suggested.

Other products also contained other compounds, such as tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive component of cannabis. Although it is unlikely to cause a “high” if a person applies it topically, it might be important to watch out for if people have sensitive skin or undergo regular drug tests.

CBD for other skin problems

A person can mix CBD oil with a carrier oil to treat acne and sensitive skin.

CBD may also help a person manage other skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory properties. CBD also has an antioxidant effect in the body, which may also be helpful for other skin problems.

Eczema and psoriasis: The anti-inflammatory compound may help reduce potential triggers of eczema and psoriasis in some people. CBD may also help balance the immune system, which influences these conditions. However, more direct research is necessary.

Sensitive skin: These same benefits may help soothe sensitive skin and reduce the appearance of general irritation. However, people should be cautious about any added ingredients, as these may irritate sensitive skin.

Aging and wrinkles: CBD has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect, which may promote overall skin health and reduce age lines and wrinkles. However, there are many other antioxidants, such as those in vitamin E and fruits, that are more accessible than CBD oil.

Takeaway

There is some evidence to suggest that CBD oil may help treat acne. The compound acts directly on the cells that make sebum, which can help balance oil production and reduce inflammation.

However, more direct research in humans can help give these claims a solid backing. Anyone curious about using CBD oil should speak to a skincare specialist.