What is the treatment for desquamation (peeling skin) on the foot?

From the Guidelines

To treat peeled skin on the foot, it is essential to prioritize prevention of further irritation and infection, especially in individuals with diabetes, by keeping the area clean, moisturized, and protected, as emphasized in the guidelines for preventing foot ulcers in persons with diabetes 1. When dealing with peeled skin on the foot, it's crucial to follow a careful approach to prevent infection and promote healing.

• Start by gently cleaning the area with mild soap and warm water, then pat it dry, as this helps prevent infection and promotes a clean environment for healing.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection, followed by a moisturizer to keep the area hydrated, as maintaining moisture is key to the healing process.
• Cover the area with a non-stick bandage to protect it while allowing it to breathe, which is vital for preventing further irritation and promoting healing.
• Change the bandage daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty to maintain cleanliness and prevent bacterial growth.
• For individuals with diabetes, who are at a higher risk of foot complications, it is strongly recommended to educate them on proper foot care, including daily foot washing, drying, and moisturizing, as well as the importance of wearing properly fitting footwear 1.
• Additionally, individuals with diabetes should be encouraged to examine their feet daily for any signs of ulcers or pre-ulcerative lesions and to seek medical attention promptly if they notice any abnormalities, as early detection and treatment are critical in preventing severe outcomes 1.
• The treatment approach should be tailored to the individual's risk level, with those at higher risk (IWGDF risk 2-3) requiring more frequent monitoring and intervention, including consideration of coaching for self-monitoring of foot skin temperatures to identify early signs of inflammation 1.
• It is also important to address any pre-ulcerative lesions, excess callus, or fungal infections promptly to prevent the development of foot ulcers, as these conditions can significantly increase the risk of complications in individuals with diabetes 1.

From the Research

Peeled Skin on Foot Treatment

• The treatment for peeled skin on the foot depends on the underlying cause of the condition.
• If the peeled skin is due to a fungal infection such as tinea pedis, treatment with an antifungal agent is necessary 2, 3.
• Topical therapy is generally successful for tinea pedis unless the infection covers an extensive area or is resistant to initial therapy, in which case systemic therapy may be required 2.
• Azole or allylamine medications can be used to treat tinea pedis, with treatment duration ranging from one to four weeks 2, 3.
• For other conditions such as eczema, treatment with topical corticosteroids and emollients may be effective, and the use of antibiotics may not be necessary unless there is a secondary bacterial infection 4, 5.
• Chemical peels can also be used to treat certain skin conditions, but they are not typically used to treat peeled skin on the foot 6.

Considerations for Treatment

• The choice of treatment should be based on the severity and cause of the peeled skin, as well as the patient's medical history and other factors.
• It is essential to follow the treatment regimen as directed by a healthcare professional to ensure effective treatment and prevent complications.
• Patients should also practice good foot hygiene, such as keeping the feet clean and dry, to help prevent the recurrence of peeled skin on the foot.