Colder temperatures each winter bring many Americans one big problem: dry, cracked skin. Those itchy, dry patches are nature’s way of letting us know that the outer layer of our skin, made up of dead skin cells, natural oils and lipids (fats), needs help.
Cold weather and lower humidity as a result of indoor heating can strip away the skin’s natural protective layer and wreak havoc with our skin’s ability to stay moisturized. In extreme cases, if not treated, some of these dry areas can deteriorate into painful cracked and bleeding skin, particularly around the feet and ankles. A quick trip to your local drug store will show, however, that there is no limit to the number of products that are designed to alleviate dry skin.
If your skin is excessively dry and certainly if you have any cracking on your feet or heels, you should visit with your podiatric physician. Your doctor will diagnose and help you treat your feet so that you can get these conditions under control. Many DPMs can dispense creams and lotions right in the office or make recommendations for the best products for your particular condition.
The APMA recommends a number of products for handling dry skin. These products carry the APMA Seal of Approval and can be found in most drug stores. For more information about these products, and others carrying the APMA Seal, ask your podiatric physician or contact the APMA at 1-800-FOOTCARE.
Source: Footprints, APMA Newsletter