Why it happens

Your first instinct may be to blame the weather for your dry, flaky feet. True, the combination of frigid weather outside and dry heat indoors contributes to the problem. But according to OurHealthNetwork, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. According to the Web site, here are some other reasons:

• When you shower or bathe, this “breaks down natural skin barriers, allowing moisture to escape.”
• Oil and sweat glands in feet are less active than glands in other spots. The result? A greater likelihood of dryness and irritation. Being overweight puts even more pressure on your feet and sweat glands.
• Individual variations in our gait — how we walk and step — also affect our feet. These differences from person to person can cause “areas of thick, hard and dry skin on feet.”
• People with particular health conditions — like thyroid problems or diabetes — or who take certain medications may be more likely to have dry, flaky feet.

How to fix it

1. Exfoliate

Like any other part of the body, exfoliating dry, dead skin from your feet is a must. Invest in a pumice stone or buffer and use it two to three times a week. In particular, focus on extra-dry areas to lift the dead skin. Apply gentle pressure with back and forth strokes.

• Bliss Diamancel #10 Classic Buffer helps to smooth, buff and refine tough heels.
• Got calluses or extra-rough dry patches? Then try Bliss Diamancel #20 Callus Rasp.

Scrubs and peels also eliminate dry flakes.

• L’Occitane Shea Butter Exfoliating Foot Care is loaded with powdered walnuts and poppy seeds to exfoliate your skin. As a bonus, rich shea butter keeps feet hydrated.

• SpaRitual Let It Go Callus Remover is perfect for extra-rough, callus-covered spots. The glycolic acid formula has smoothing properties. Pour some on a cotton pad and wipe it over calluses. After a few minutes, rinse off.

2. Soak

For an extra treat, soak your feet and heels in warm water and Epsom salts. Many experts say this is a great way to relieve foot aches and pains, particularly after a long day on your feet. Just be sure the water’s not too hot or you’ll dry out your feet even more.

3. Hydrate

So, you’ve sloughed off the dry, rough skin from your feet. The next step? Locking in as much hydration as possible! This replenishes lost moisture and strengthens skin’s protective barrier.

• Enjoy the ultra-rich hydration of shea butter and the soothing lavender scent of L’Occitane Shea Butter Foot Cream.
• Then, slip on a pair of gel-lined, moisture-binding socks, such as Bliss Softening Socks. Worn overnight, they’ll soften even the roughest, driest heels. Use them with Bliss Softening Sock Salve.

4. Keep it up

Now that your feet and heels are smooth and soft once again, they’ll need regular maintenance to stay that way. Otherwise, dry dead skin will build up and roughness will return. The good news? Just a few minutes a day spent exfoliating and hydrating your feet is all it takes to keep your feet happy and healthy.

See also:

Tips for a Beautiful Neck & Dècolletè

Skin Care Solutions for Every Season

5 Tips for Winter Skin Survival