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Narrator:
From the time we first learn to pull ourselves upright, our feet are literally the foundation on which we stand,
but that foundation is often neglected-- falling victim to dry, callused or cracked skin.
Michael Smith, MD, WebMD Chief Medical Editor:
Everything that you do to keep your skin healthy will help your feet.
Moisturize, lotion, lots of water—staying hydrated, even a healthy diet…but your feet actually require a little extra care because we're standing on them all day.
Narrator:
So putting your best foot forward is essential. Certain activities tend to aggravate our foot woes…Standing for long periods of time can stress foot skin.
Likewise, being overweight can add unwanted pressure and strain the skin. And…
Michael Smith, MD, WebMD Chief Medical Editor:
You need to make sure there's not an underlying medical condition making it more difficult to keep your feet young and healthy.
Narrator:
Medical conditions like diabetes or an under active thyroid, that could make the skin prone to drying. In addition, skin ailments like eczema or psoriasis may also be a factor for some:
When possible, it's better to kick potential foot problems to the curb treating yourself to a periodic pedicure or foot soak can reduce stress, relieve minor aches and soften the skin.
And while that skin is soft you should exfoliate it using a lufa sponge or pumice stone.
Michael Smith, MD, WebMD Chief Medical Editor:
If you have a job that requires you standing a lot during the day, you're likely going to need to exfoliate more frequently than someone else.
Narrator:
As a final step, many foot care specialist recommend that you moisturize with an oil-based cream twice a day.
If the added attention doesn't boot your foot-skin problems, then you may need to see a specialist for a more specific remedy: For WebMD, I'm Damon Meharg.
