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This article was co-authored by Catherine Cheung, DPM. Dr. Catherine Cheung is a double board-certified Podiatrist based in San Francisco, California. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Cheung specializes in all aspects of foot and ankle care, including complex reconstruction, injury treatment, custom orthotics, bunion surgery, and all general foot and ankle issues. Dr. Cheung is affiliated with the Brown & Toland Physicians and the Sutter Medical Network. She received her BS from UCLA. She earned a DPM from the California College of Podiatric Medicine, completed her residency at the Encino Tarzana Medical Center, and completed a fellowship at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center. She is double board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive/Ankle Surgery.
There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been viewed 225,692 times.
Itchy feet may be caused by dry skin, eczema, an infection, or – less commonly – an underlying medical condition. Itchy skin can be uncomfortable, and scratching it can cause bleeding and infection. Fortunately, the most common causes of itchy feet can be treated at home. Treat your itchy feet by identifying the cause of the itchiness and using appropriate natural remedies or medications.[1]
Steps
Moisturize dry skin. Dry skin can be very itchy, especially for older adults whose skin may be thinner. If your itchy feet have dry, flaky skin, use a daily moisturizing cream, lotion, or ointment on your feet every day. Rub it into your heel, sole, sides and tops of your feet, and between your toes. Look for a product with a petrolatum base, which can soften and moisturize even dry, cracked skin.[2]
Use cool water. Soak your feet in cool water, or place a cool wet cloth against the itchy areas of your feet. Cool water can be soothing to irritated, itchy skin.You can do this daily, or even several times daily - but if soaking often, be sure to moisturize your skin afterwards.[3]- If you’re using a cloth for your feet, reserve it just for that purpose in case you’re dealing with a fungus.
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Try an oatmeal soak. Oatmeal baths have traditionally been used to soothe itchy skin. Add two cups of ground oatmeal and one cup of baking soda to your bath, and soak your feet for a natural itch remedy. This safe and gentle remedy can be used daily.
Experiment with a saltwater soak. Soak your feet in salt water to relieve aching and potentially help with itching and irritation. Dissolve 2 teaspoons of salt for each pint of warm water you use. Use a shallow pan or a few inches of water in the bathtub - enough to cover the tops of your feet. Soak for 5-10 minutes.[4]- See how salt water works for you. It may help, but the salt could also worsen any itching by drying out the skin even more.
- You can do this hourly until your itching improves. Salt can dry out your skin, so rinse your feet in cool water and moisturize your feet after your salt soak.
Identify and avoid irritants. Itchiness can be caused by even a mild allergic reaction to something you’re wearing or a product you’re using.- OTC antihistamines may relieve itching that’s caused by allergic reactions.[5]
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Recognize athlete’s foot. One of the most common causes of itchy feet, athlete’s foot usually causes a red, scaly rash on and in between your toes. Your feet may be itchiest right after removing your socks and shoes. You might get athlete’s foot on just one foot or on both.[6]- Athlete’s foot is caused by moisture, often from exercise or heat. Be sure to remove your shoes and change into dry socks so that your feet can also dry.
- You might also get blisters on your feet, or ulcers – areas where your skin rubs off.
- One type of athlete’s foot starts on the sole of your foot and causes dryness and scaling that travels over the side of your foot.
Get an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication. Mild athlete’s foot can often be treated with OTC powders, sprays, or ointments that fight fungal infections. You can ask your doctor for recommendations, or speak with the pharmacist at your local drug store. Common brands are Tinactin, Micatin, Lamisil, and Lotrimin-AF.[7]- Rinse your feet and dry them really well, especially in between your toes. Then apply the medication to the tops, bottoms, and sides of both feet, and in between all your toes.[8]
- Use the medicine two times every day until the rash goes away. Simple athlete’s foot should heal in about a week.
- Try putting antifungals sprays or powders in your shoes to dry them out when you're not wearing them.[9]
- If your case takes longer to heal (4 to 6 weeks), then you may need an oral anti-fungal medication.
Get prescription medication for stubborn athlete’s foot. If OTC medications don’t clear up your athlete’s foot in 4-6 weeks, you may need prescription-strength medication.[10] Visit your doctor to discuss this option. Stronger medication may be available to put on your feet, or you might need to take an antifungal medicine as a pill.- Oral antifungal medications can affect your liver, so let your doctor know if you have or have ever had liver problems.
Keep your feet dry to prevent athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot, caused by a fungus, thrives in damp environments. Keep your feet dry, and change your socks and shoes as soon as possible if they get wet. Dry your feet thoroughly before putting your socks on.[11]- Athlete’s foot is also highly contagious, so if you share a swimming pool or locker room with others, protect yourself. Wear shower shoes in the locker room and shower, and don’t share towels or linens with someone who has an infection.
- Clean your feet regularly, washing between your toes with soap. You can also use a hairdryer to make sure that your feet dry properly.[12]
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Get a prescribed corticosteroid cream. If simple moisturizing doesn’t improve your itchy feet, visit your doctor. They can prescribe a steroid cream that can be very effective in improving itchiness.[13] Topical steroids (those you rub on your skin) can also improve redness and many rashes, including very itchy blisters from a condition called pompholyx (an allergic reaction).[14]
See your doctor for a diagnosis. Most often, itchy feet are caused by a benign condition. Sometimes, however, itchy feet can be a symptom of a more serious problem. If you try self-treatment at home that doesn’t resolve your problem within two weeks, see your doctor.
Treat scabies. Scabies are small mites that burrow into your skin, causing severe itching that’s especially bad at night. Suspect a scabies infection if multiple people in your household have developed similar symptoms of severe itchiness, or if you have small blisters or burrow-marks in your skin. Visit your doctor for medication like 5% Permethrin cream, Lindane, Crotamiton, or Ivermectin.[15]- Look for rashes on other parts of your body – not just your feet. Scabies will also usually show up in the armpits or groin.
- Wash all the clothing, bedding, and linens in your home in hot, soapy water, then dry on high heat. This can help prevent reinfection.
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Expert Q&A
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- QuestionHow do you stop itchy feet naturally?
Catherine Cheung, DPMDr. Catherine Cheung is a double board-certified Podiatrist based in San Francisco, California. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Cheung specializes in all aspects of foot and ankle care, including complex reconstruction, injury treatment, custom orthotics, bunion surgery, and all general foot and ankle issues. Dr. Cheung is affiliated with the Brown & Toland Physicians and the Sutter Medical Network. She received her BS from UCLA. She earned a DPM from the California College of Podiatric Medicine, completed her residency at the Encino Tarzana Medical Center, and completed a fellowship at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center. She is double board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive/Ankle Surgery.
Board Certified PodiatristYour feet are probably not getting enough air. Stay away from nylon socks and switch to cotton. Try to minimize how much time you spend wearing shoes and switch to sandals if you can. If your feet get itchy throughout the day, try changing socks during lunch or switching to more breathable shoes. The more air your feet can get, the less itchy they'll become throughout the day. - QuestionWhy are my feet itching like crazy?Catherine Cheung, DPMDr. Catherine Cheung is a double board-certified Podiatrist based in San Francisco, California. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Cheung specializes in all aspects of foot and ankle care, including complex reconstruction, injury treatment, custom orthotics, bunion surgery, and all general foot and ankle issues. Dr. Cheung is affiliated with the Brown & Toland Physicians and the Sutter Medical Network. She received her BS from UCLA. She earned a DPM from the California College of Podiatric Medicine, completed her residency at the Encino Tarzana Medical Center, and completed a fellowship at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center. She is double board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive/Ankle Surgery.
Board Certified PodiatristThere may be something that's irritating your feet. Try making one small change at a time to identify your trigger – switch laundry detergent, change your soap, and wear only natural cotton socks. If you can identify what is causing your itching, you'll be able to avoid it in the future. - QuestionIs itchy feet a sign of diabetes?Catherine Cheung, DPMDr. Catherine Cheung is a double board-certified Podiatrist based in San Francisco, California. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Cheung specializes in all aspects of foot and ankle care, including complex reconstruction, injury treatment, custom orthotics, bunion surgery, and all general foot and ankle issues. Dr. Cheung is affiliated with the Brown & Toland Physicians and the Sutter Medical Network. She received her BS from UCLA. She earned a DPM from the California College of Podiatric Medicine, completed her residency at the Encino Tarzana Medical Center, and completed a fellowship at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center. She is double board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive/Ankle Surgery.
Board Certified PodiatristIt's rare, but sometimes itchy feet can be an indication of an underlying condition. I suggest you talk to your doctor about your concerns.
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Tips
- Don’t scratch your itchy feet! Scratching can make itching worse, cause bleeding or infection, and some problems – like athlete’s foot – can spread to your hands.[16]Thanks
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Warnings
- If you have diabetes, see your doctor for any foot problems – even if it seems as simple as athlete’s foot.[17]Thanks
- Visit your healthcare provider if your foot problem doesn’t resolve after you try to treat it at home.[18]Thanks
- When ring-shaped, itchy spots appear on the foot, it may be tinea pedis (athlete’s foot). Your doctor can prescribe oral antifungals and a special cream to treat the condition.
- Important: If you have this fungal infection, avoid sharing socks or shoes. Make sure to wash them thoroughly with soap and hot water.
Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/itchy-skin/symptoms-causes/syc-20355006
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scabies/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20023488
- ↑ http://www.med-health.net/Itchy-Soles-Of-Feet.html
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scabies/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20023488
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
- ↑ http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/athletes-foot-jock-itch-and-ringworm
- ↑ Catherine Cheung, DPM. Board Certified Podiatrist. Expert Interview. 21 April 2019.
- ↑ Catherine Cheung, DPM. Board Certified Podiatrist. Expert Interview. 12 May 2020.
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/diagnosis-treatment/treatment/txc-20235953
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
- ↑ http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/athletes-foot-jock-itch-and-ringworm
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/itchy-skin/diagnosis-treatment/treatment/txc-20262931
- ↑ http://myheart.net/articles/itchy-feet-causes-cures/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scabies/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377383
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841
About This Article
Board Certified Podiatrist
This article was co-authored by Catherine Cheung, DPM. Dr. Catherine Cheung is a double board-certified Podiatrist based in San Francisco, California. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Cheung specializes in all aspects of foot and ankle care, including complex reconstruction, injury treatment, custom orthotics, bunion surgery, and all general foot and ankle issues. Dr. Cheung is affiliated with the Brown & Toland Physicians and the Sutter Medical Network. She received her BS from UCLA. She earned a DPM from the California College of Podiatric Medicine, completed her residency at the Encino Tarzana Medical Center, and completed a fellowship at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center. She is double board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in Foot Surgery and Reconstructive/Ankle Surgery. This article has been viewed 225,692 times.
Co-authors: 12
Updated: September 8, 2023
Views: 225,692
Categories: Foot Problems | Itchy Skin (Pruritis)
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
Article SummaryX
To stop your feet from itching, apply a moisturizer or cream each day if the itchiness is caused by dry skin. Another option is to soak your itchy feet in cool water or cover them with a cool cloth, which soothes the itchiness. If you enjoy taking a bath, add 2 cups of oatmeal and 1 cup of baking soda before you get in to create a natural soothing treatment for your feet. If you think you have athlete’s foot, which results in red rashes between your toes, remove your socks and shoes so your feet can dry out after exercise. Additionally, get an over-the-counter powder or spray to treat athlete’s foot. If your attempts to treat your itchy feet at home don’t work, make an appointment with your doctor to get a prescription treatment. For tips from our Medical co-author on how to treat scabies on your feet, keep reading!
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