Why Your Feet Get So Dry (and How to Fix It)
Do your feet tend to get dry, rough, and cracked? Our feet work hard and are often neglected until they start to hurt. Understanding why feet get dry can help you keep them softer, smoother, and more comfortable all year long.
Why Feet Dry Out
Several factors make feet more prone to dryness than other parts of your body:
1. Fewer Oil Glands
The skin on your feet, especially the soles, has fewer sebaceous (oil) glands. With less natural oil production, your feet can’t hold on to moisture as easily.
2. Thicker Skin
The skin on the soles of the feet is thicker, especially at the heels. While this helps protect against pressure, it also makes it harder for moisture to penetrate.
3. Constant Pressure & Friction
Walking, running, and even standing for long periods create friction that can thicken and harden skin, leading to rough patches.
4. Exposure to the Elements
Dry indoor heating in winter or hot, dusty summer days, can quickly strip moisture from your feet.
5. Frequent Washing
Hot water and harsh soaps remove natural oils, leaving skin even drier—especially if you skip moisturizer afterward.
6. Aging
As we get older, our skin produces less oil and retains less moisture, making dryness more common.
7. Certain Health Conditions
Eczema, diabetes, and fungal infections like athlete’s foot can all cause or worsen dryness and cracking.
How to Keep Feet Soft & Healthy
The good news? A consistent foot care routine can make a big difference. Here’s what helps:
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Moisturize daily – especially after bathing, when skin is still slightly damp.
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Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and help moisturizers penetrate better.
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Wear breathable socks and shoes to reduce friction and sweat buildup.
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Protect from extreme weather by wearing shoes or socks outdoors.
- Soak in a cold mountain stream, icy water is invigorating for tired feet.
For deep hydration, we love Colorado Aromatics’ Sole Pleasure Foot Butter—rich in botanical oils and butters that penetrate thick skin, restore softness, and help prevent cracking.
Or try our Foot Spa trio; Herbal Foot Soak, Sugar Scrub and Sole Pleasure Foot Butter.