What Causes Itchy Feet?
Dry Skin and Eczema
Dry skin can make itching on feet worse, especially in winter when humidity is low. If you notice flaky or cracked skin, regular moisturizing can help. Eczema, a condition that causes inflammation and itching, may also affect the feet, leading to itchy feet at night due to increased dryness.
Psoriasis and Other Skin Conditions
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can cause patches of red, scaly skin on the feet. It often leads to itchy soles of the feet, especially if the skin on the feet becomes dry or cracked. Other conditions like dyshidrotic eczema (small, itchy blisters) may also cause discomfort.
Allergic Reactions (Contact Dermatitis)
If your feet that itch started after wearing new shoes, using a different detergent, or walking barefoot in grass, an allergic reaction could be the cause. Contact dermatitis happens when the skin reacts to an irritant, causing redness, itching, and sometimes blisters.
Underlying Health Conditions
Sometimes, itching on the feet is linked to internal health issues. Conditions like diabetes (which can cause nerve-related itching), kidney disease, or liver problems can contribute to persistent itchy feet. If the itching is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, a healthcare provider can help identify the cause.
Fungal Infections (Athlete’s Foot)
Itchy soles on feet can occur as a symptom of athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that thrives in warm, damp environments like sweaty shoes or public locker rooms. While the infection of Athlete’s foot is on the foot or in between toes, redness, dry and peeling skin may occur and cause itchiness on the feet. If you’re wondering if Athlete’s foot could be the culprit for itchy feet, read more in our extensive guide on Athlete’s Foot.