Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Itchy feet can be annoying, uncomfortable, and sometimes even a sign of an underlying condition. Whether the itching happens during the day or gets worse at night, finding relief starts with understanding the cause. Let’s look at the most common reasons behind feet that itch and ways to soothe the discomfort.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
If you find yourself wondering why do my feet itch more at bedtime, it could be due to several reasons (source):
Making simple changes, like using a moisturizer before bed and wearing breathable socks, may help you relieve itchy feet at night.
If itching keeps you up at night, here are some ways to soothe it:
If a fungal infection is the cause of itchy feet, an antifungal cream may help. LamisilAT is one option available to address athlete’s foot.
Explore: LamisilAT Products
If itching is severe, persistent, or comes with swelling, pain, or skin changes, a healthcare provider can help. They may recommend prescription treatments depending on the underlying cause.
Taking steps to prevent itching on the feet can help keep discomfort away.
More tips: Treat and Prevent Athlete’s Foot
Itchy feet can be frustrating, but identifying the cause makes it easier to find relief. Whether it’s dry skin, a fungal infection, or another condition, simple steps like keeping feet clean, using moisturizer, and choosing breathable footwear can help. If symptoms don’t improve, a healthcare provider can help pinpoint the cause and recommend further treatments.
