Eczema, Psoriasis & Dermatitis on the Feet in Whitby
Skin inflammation on the feet is common and can appear as itching, redness, dryness, scaling, or cracking. The most frequent causes are eczema, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis. Although these conditions can look similar, they have different triggers and may require different approaches.
This page provides an overview and links to detailed guides for each condition.
Eczema & Contact Dermatitis
Eczema and dermatitis both involve irritation and inflammation of the skin barrier. They often appear as:
- Itching
- Redness
- Dry, flaky skin
- Burning or stinging
- Cracking (fissures)
- Patterns that match footwear or sock contact
These conditions are commonly triggered by dryness, sweat, friction, soaps, detergents, footwear materials, or allergens.
👉 Learn more: Eczema & Contact Dermatitis on the Feet
Psoriasis on the Feet
Psoriasis is an immune‑mediated condition that causes thick, scaly plaques, often on weight‑bearing areas. It may lead to:
- Silvery‑white scaling
- Thickened skin
- Painful cracks
- Red or pink plaques
- Nail changes
Psoriasis can resemble eczema or dermatitis, but typically produces thicker, more defined plaques.
👉 Learn more: Psoriasis on the Feet
How We Help
Our chiropodists assess the skin, identify likely causes, and provide safe, evidence‑based care. Treatment may include:
- Reduction of dry or thickened skin
- Fissure (crack) care
- Moisture and friction‑management strategies
- Skin‑barrier support
- Guidance on when prescription therapy is needed
- Referral to dermatology for persistent or severe cases
Treatment Options
Topical Steroids
Topical steroids help reduce redness, itching, and inflammation. We choose the strength based on severity and skin thickness.
Low Potency
Hydrocortisone 1% / 2.5% Brands: Cortate®, Emo‑Cort®
Medium Potency
Hydrocortisone valerate 0.2% — Westcort® Betamethasone valerate 0.1% — Betaderm®, Celestoderm® Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% — Kenalog®
High Potency
Betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% — Diprosone®, Diprolene® Mometasone furoate 0.1% — Elocom® Fluocinonide 0.05% — Lidex®
Keratolytics & Skin‑Softening Agents
Used to reduce scaling and soften thickened skin.
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Urea — Uremol®, Urisec®, Dermal Therapy®, Flexitol®
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Ammonium lactate 12% — Lac‑Hydrin®, AmLactin®
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Lactic acid 16.7% — Lachydrin HP®
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Salicylic acid (low strengths) — Dermarest® Psoriasis, Taro® SA Cream
Non‑Steroid Options
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Pimecrolimus 1% — Elidel® (eczema)
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Calcipotriol 50 mcg/g — Dovonex®, Dovobet® (psoriasis)
When We Refer to Dermatology
We may recommend referral to a dermatologist if symptoms are severe, widespread, not responding to treatment, or if patch testing or systemic therapy is needed.
Moisturizers & Barrier Repair Creams
Keeping the skin well‑hydrated is one of the most effective ways to manage eczema and dermatitis on the feet. Moisturizers help repair the skin barrier, reduce dryness, and prevent flare‑ups.
Recommended Options
Aveeno Eczema Care Contains colloidal oatmeal to soothe itch and support the skin barrier. Helpful for mild eczema and daily maintenance.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Ceramides and hyaluronic acid help restore the skin barrier and improve hydration.
La Roche‑Posay Lipikar Baume AP+ Rich, fragrance‑free moisturizer suitable for very dry or sensitive skin.
Urea‑based creams (10–20%) Brands: Uremol®, Urisec®, Dermal Therapy®, Flexitol® Softens dry, rough skin and improves moisture retention.
Ammonium lactate 12% Lac‑Hydrin®, AmLactin® — helpful for mild scaling and chronic dryness.
How to Use
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Apply once or twice daily
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Best used after bathing or before bed
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Avoid fragranced products, foot soaks, and harsh soaps