Concerns About My Foot Skin Condition
I'm sharing this anonymously because I'm quite self-conscious about the appearance of my feet. At 25 years old, I am a female living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and have undergone surgeries due to Atlantoaxial Instability (AAI), Craniocervical Instability (CCI), and Tethered Cord Syndrome. Recently, I decided to try one of those foot shaver gadgets to eliminate some of the calluses on my feet. This was my first experience with such a device, and it was surprisingly effective, removing quite a bit of skin. However, I've noticed a troubling issue since then: after I shower, the state of my feet resembles the awful condition I'm worried about. They tend to become extremely messy, with skin shedding in large quantities and causing quite a cleanup that can take me over an hour to manage, often without fully resolving the situation. Additionally, I've observed that my skin tends to come off in the water on other areas of my body too. Even the slightest touch causes it to flake away, creating a texture similar to clay. This phenomenon doesn't cause pain but is bothersome and creates a mess. However, this is nothing compared to the state of my feet. Should this be something I am worried about? What steps can I take to improve the condition of my feet?
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 9:10:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant skin changes on your feet and possibly other areas of your body. Given your unique health situation with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and your recent use of a foot shaver, it's understandable that you are concerned about these changes. Here’s a breakdown of what might be happening and some steps you can take to improve the condition of your feet.
Main Points
- You may be experiencing skin shedding or flaking due to a combination of factors, including the use of the foot shaver and your underlying condition.
- Implementing a gentle skincare routine can help manage dry and flaky skin.
Explanation
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can impact skin elasticity and integrity, which might make your skin more prone to irritation and shedding. The use of a foot shaver likely removed the protective layer of skin, leading to excessive dryness and flakiness. This shedding, especially in water, can occur as the skin becomes more fragile. It's important to prioritize skin barrier protection and hydration.
Next Steps
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Moisturize: After showering, apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer specifically designed for dry skin. Look for products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, urea, or ceramides to help lock in moisture.
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Reduce Abrasive Treatments: Temporarily discontinue the use of the foot shaver until your skin heals. Instead, use a gentle foot file or a pumice stone in the shower, if necessary, but don't overdo it.
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Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, hydrating cleansers for your feet and body to avoid further irritation. Avoid hot water as it can exacerbate dryness.
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Hydration: Make sure you're drinking plenty of water daily. Proper hydration can improve skin health as well.
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Wear Protective Footwear: Choose well-fitting shoes with breathable materials to prevent friction and irritation on your feet.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your skin condition. If you notice worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, redness, itching, or signs of infection, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.
By taking these steps, you should start to see improvements in the condition of your feet. Stay attentive to how your skin responds, and caring for it consistently will yield the best results. If you have further questions or need more guidance, feel free to ask!
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