Why Skin Health Matters

The skin on your feet works hard—it’s your first line of defense against friction, pressure, and infection. When things go wrong, even small issues can become painful, unsightly, or lead to more serious complications, especially in people with diabetes or circulatory conditions.

 

At Toe-tal Podiatry, we manage a wide range of skin concerns to keep your feet comfortable, healthy, and protected.

 

Common Skin Conditions We Treat

1. Calluses (Hyperkeratosis)

What is it?

Thickened, hardened skin that builds up in areas of high pressure—often the ball of the foot or heel.

 Causes:

• Poor foot mechanics

• Ill-fitting shoes

• High-impact activities

Treatment:

• Gentle debridement (removal) in clinic

• Pressure redistribution with orthotics or padding

• Footwear advice

 Prevention:

Supportive shoes, regular check-ups, moisturizing

 

2. Corns (Heloma)

What is it?

A compact, cone-shaped area of hard skin that presses into the foot, causing pain.

 Types:

• Hard corns (top of toes or ball of foot)

• Soft corns (between toes)

 Treatment:

• Safe removal by your podiatrist

• Pressure relief with pads or orthotics

• Address underlying footwear or biomechanical issues

 

Never attempt to cut or treat corns at home—this can lead to infection.

 

3. Cracked Heels (Heel Fissures)

What is it?

Split or cracked skin around the heel, sometimes deep and painful.

 Causes:

• Dry skin

• Prolonged standing

• Open-back shoes

 Treatment:

• Removal of thickened skin

• Application of intensive moisturisers or heel balms

• Heel cups or strapping for deep fissures

 Prevention:

• Daily moisturising

• Wearing supportive, enclosed shoes

 

4. Plantar Warts (Verruca Pedis)

What is it?

A viral infection (HPV) of the skin on the sole of the foot.

 Symptoms:

• Small, rough, cauliflower-like lesions

• May have black dots (clotted capillaries)

• Painful with pressure (often mistaken for corns)

 Treatment:

• In-clinic topical acid treatments

• Cryotherapy (freezing)

• Debridement and dressing

• Home treatment plans for milder cases

 

Warts are contagious—avoid barefoot use in public areas.

 

5. Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis)

What is it?

A fungal infection between the toes or on the sole of the foot.

 Symptoms:

• Itching, burning

• Peeling, cracking skin

• Odour

 Treatment:

• Topical antifungal creams or sprays

• Oral antifungal medication (in stubborn cases)

• Keeping feet dry and clean

 Prevention:

• Wear thongs in public showers

• Change socks daily

• Dry thoroughly between toes

 

 6. Blisters

What is it?

Fluid-filled skin sacs from friction or pressure.

 Treatment:

• Painless drainage if needed (in clinic)

• Pressure offloading

• Blister prevention padding

Avoid popping blisters at home due to infection risk.

 

7. Chilblains

What is it?

Painful, itchy red or purple patches that develop from sudden cold exposure.

Common in:

People with poor circulation or cold sensitivity

Treatment:

• Gentle warming, creams, and protective socks

• Avoid rapid temperature changes

 

8. Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis)

What is it?

A fungal infection of the toenail that causes thickening, discoloration, crumbling.

Treatment:

• Topical antifungal nail lacquers

• Nail debridement

• Oral antifungal medications (via GP if needed)

Prevention:

• Keep nails trimmed and clean

• Avoid barefoot use in public areas

• Don’t share nail clippers or shoes

 

9. Dry Skin (Xerosis)

What is it?

Lack of moisture in the skin leading to flakiness, itching, or cracking.

Causes:

Age, weather, dehydration, medical conditions

Treatment:

• Urea-based moisturisers

• Exfoliation during podiatry appointments

• Foot soaks (with guidance)

 

10. Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)

What is it?

Excessive sweating of the feet, often leading to odour, fungal infection, or skin breakdown.

Treatment:

• Antiperspirant sprays or powders

• Moisture-wicking socks

• Footwear ventilation advice

   

Skin Health for At-Risk Patients

For patients with diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation, even minor skin issues can lead to serious complications like ulcers or infections. Regular foot checks and early intervention are essential.

 

General Skin Care Tips

• Moisturise daily (especially heels and soles)

• Dry thoroughly between the toes

• Rotate shoes to allow drying

• Wear clean socks every day

• Avoid at-home “corn plasters” or bathroom surgery

• Book regular podiatry reviews if you have recurring skin issues or are high-risk

 

Let Us Take Care of Your Sole

Whether it’s dry skin, warts, or painful corns—we’re here to help you walk more comfortably and confidently.

 

From your team at Toe-tal Podiatry

For skin that’s soft, smooth, and step-ready.