One of the best ways to maintain healthy feet is by moisturizing the skin daily. Keeping your feet hydrated will reduce the risk of developing dry and cracked skin, and subsequently reduce the risk of pain and infection.
Foot Cream vs Body Lotion
The main difference between foot cream and body lotion is the thickness and absorption. The skin on the bottom of our feet are thicker than anywhere else on the body so foot creams are generally made thicker and more hydrating than body lotion.
Active Ingredients
Foot cream have active ingredients that can be classified into 3 main groups. Some foot cream contain all 3 ingredients. It’s important to understand their differences in order to choose the best moisturizer for your need.
| Mechanism of Action | Examples | |
|---|---|---|
| 1)Humectants | – Pull water into the skin and slow water from evaporating from the epidermis. – Promote shedding of dead skin cells (known as desquamation). | – Urea – Glycerin – Hyaluronic Acid |
| 2) Emollients | – Oily substance that fills the space between dead skin cells. | – Shea Butter – Ceramides |
| 3) Occlusives | – Ingredient that create a physical barrier on top of the skin. – Typically feels very thick and heavy after application since it is not absorbed into the skin. | – Vaseline (Petrolatum Jelly) |
Helpful Tips:
- Choose a foot cream that is free of fragrance and chemicals that may irritate the skin
- People with diabetes or those who are at high risk of foot complications should look for a cream that is suitable for diabetics.
- Apply foot cream on the top, bottom, and sides of the foot. Try to avoid application between the toes since it can promote fungal growth.
- Foam-based formulations is a useful alternative to those who cannot tolerate the thick and greasiness of cream formulations.
Whether you are maintaining dry skin or trying to treat cracked heels, book an appointment with us to discuss your best management plan. All of the foot moisturizers we carry in the clinic are fragrance-free and are suitable for people with diabetes!