Bottom of Feet Itchy? Here’s What Your Skin Is Trying to Tell You

Ever wonder why the bottom of your feet is itchy? Whether it’s a sudden tickle or a deep itch on the bottom of the foot that just won’t go away, your skin could be trying to tell you something important.  

Let's walk through the common reasons this happens and what each one might mean. We’ll also talk about some effective ways to treat itchy feet and when to consult a doctor.

Common Causes of the Bottom of the Feet Feeling Itchy

The bottom of your feet can feel itchy due to various reasons, like dryness or nerve damage. Here are some of the common causes: 

1. Dry Skin

If you have dry and itchy skin on the bottom of your feet, especially in the winter or in dry climates, it could simply be that your skin needs moisture. Dry skin can crack, flake, and even feel raw. Using moisturizers, creams, or even oatmeal baths can help relieve the itch. If regular lotions don’t help, your pharmacist can suggest something stronger.

If you feel that the bottom of your feet is itchy after a shower, it might be due to extended exposure to hot water or using harsh soaps that strip away the moisture. You should avoid taking long, steamy showers, pat your feet dry, and moisturize them while they are still wet. 

2. Nerve Damage 

Sometimes when the nerves in your feet get damaged, they send confusing signals to the brain. This can make the bottom of your foot itch even when there’s nothing there. This is often caused by conditions like diabetes. People may also feel tingling, numbness, or burning in the same area. Doctors might treat this with medications, special patches, or nerve therapies.

3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease where skin cells build up too quickly, creating red, itchy patches with a silvery coating. Psoriasis on the soles of the feet, also known as plantar psoriasis, makes the bottom of the feet itchy and may even become painful when plaques form. It’s an immune system condition, and treatments include special creams and soothing products. Using cool compresses and warm showers can also help.

4. Eczema

Eczema can show up as dry, inflamed skin anywhere on your body, including your feet. It can make you scratch until the skin bleeds. A type called dyshidrotic eczema shows up as small, deep blisters on the sides and soles of your feet. If you have red, itchy bumps on the bottom of the feet, this could be the reason. Soaking feet in cold water or using cool compresses can relieve mild symptoms. For severe cases, a doctor may need to prescribe treatment.

5. Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection. It usually starts between the toes but can spread to the rest of the foot. The infection causes itching, burning, and flaky skin. Sometimes the skin cracks and bleeds. Fungus loves warm, sweaty shoes, so it’s easy to pick up in gyms or locker rooms. Antifungal liquids or sprays are usually effective in treating athlete’s foot. 

6. Allergic Reactions

If the bottom of the foot itches suddenly and there’s a rash or swelling, it might be a skin allergy. You might react to something like soap, lotion, plants, or even a food or medicine. This can lead to hives or contact dermatitis. Antihistamines and avoiding the allergen can help ease the symptoms.

7. Hookworm Infection

Walking barefoot in areas with poor hygiene, like certain beaches or tropical places, could expose you to hookworms. These tiny parasites can enter through your skin and cause a deep itch on the bottom of the foot, along with a rash at the entry point. It’s rare in developed countries, but anti-parasitic medicines can treat it.

8. Diabetes

If you have diabetes, poor circulation or damaged nerves might make your bottom of your foot itch, even when there’s no rash. You could also have fungal infections or other skin conditions caused by high blood sugar levels. Keeping your diabetes under control helps avoid these symptoms.

9. Burns (Even After Healing)

Even after burns heal, the nerves in your feet can keep firing off itchy signals. About 80% to 100% of people who’ve had burns say they still feel itchy. This can lead to discomfort, sleep problems, and stress. Treatments like moisturizers, antihistamines, and even massage or pressure therapy can help ease the discomfort.

When to See a Doctor

If the itchy bottom of your feet isn’t getting better, or if it keeps getting worse, it’s time to see a doctor. They might ask about your medications, chronic conditions like eczema or diabetes, or if anyone close to you has had skin issues. They may also do tests like skin scrapes, cultures, or blood tests.

How to Treat Itchy Feet

Treatment depends on what’s causing the itch. Antifungal liquids or sprays work for athlete’s foot, while antihistamines can help with allergies. Steroid creams or moisturizing ointments may help with dry or irritated skin. Sometimes doctors may prescribe nerve medications or antidepressants if the cause is deeper, like neuropathy.

Prevent Itchy Feet With Effective Foot Care Habits

You can lower the chances of getting itchy feet by following good foot care habits. Make sure your feet are fully dry before putting on socks or shoes. Wash them daily with mild soap, and moisturize after bathing. Try wearing cotton or wool socks and shoes that allow your feet to breathe. If you often get athlete’s foot, consider using antifungal powder before putting on socks.

Support your foot care routine with MOA’s foot care products designed for comfort, hydration, and daily freshness. Our Silicone Moisturizing Gel Socks, Miracle Foot Repair Cream, Miracure Anti-Fungal Treatment, and other products help your feet stay hydrated and healthy.

FAQs

Why is the bottom of my feet itchy? 

The bottom of your feet can be itchy due to several reasons, including dryness, fungus, eczema, or allergic reactions. In some cases, there can be a more serious cause of itchiness, such as nerve damage or diabetes. 

Is it normal if only one bottom of the foot itches?

Itching on the bottom of one foot can be normal, but it's also important to consider potential causes. While often a sign of dry skin or a minor irritation, it could also indicate an underlying issue like athlete's foot, nerve damage, or a more serious condition.

Does athlete’s foot make the bottom of the foot itch?

Yes, athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes itching, burning, and flaky skin. It usually starts between the toes but can spread to the rest of the foot.

When should I worry if the bottom of my foot itches?

Usually, the itching can be cured by moisturizing the feet and maintaining proper hygiene. However, you should seek medical help if the itching persists or worsens.  

Sources:

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22139-athletes-foot-tinea-pedis 
2. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/dry-skin-overview 
3. https://www.cdc.gov/sth/about/hookworm.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/hookworm/gen_info/faqs.html 
4. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments/allergies/skin-allergy 
5. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/52457 
6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7313087/