Crack heels

Dear Dr. Jen,

My cracked heels are so annoying. I have tried the cracked heels solution found in the pharmacies but it still persists! Are there any oral medications I can try to help with this?

Cathy

Dear Cathy,

Cracked heels are not only unsightly, but may also be painful when you step on the cracked parts.  While emollients and oil-based creams will work wonders for your dry skin, it is also important to find out whether there is a fungal infection festering on your soles, or an underlying contact dermatitis.

Allergy or contact dermatitis to footwear or even socks are often culprits behind peeling skin on the palms and soles. A simple patch test can rule out underlying allergies.  Tinea pedis or athlete’s foot can also be found on dry or peeling skin on the soles.  A KOH stain, which is a laboratory test can also rule it out.

Using closed shoes can also help solve cracked heels. Contrary to popular belief, open-toed shoes can lead to drier feet.  Before using any creams, have your feet checked.  It might just be a fungal infection or an allergy going on.

Dear Dr. Jen,

I think I have jock itch on my thighs and groins.  I don’t do any sports and I’m just in the office most of the time.  What can cause it?  And what medicine can I use to make it immediately go away?  And is it over the counter?

Ed

Dear Ed,

Jock itch, or fungal infection in the groin area can be itchy, red, scaly and oftentimes involve the bikini lines on the groin.  Being in a hot, sweaty environment triggers the formation of jock itch. Using constricting, tight clothes also can contribute to the fungal infection.  Prolonged moments of sitting down can decrease circulation and lessen ventilation to the area.

Anti-fungal creams like ketoconazole, miconazole and clotrimazole can aid in its treatment.  I think they may be over the counter.  If you want faster results, oral anti-fungals can also be taken, though these will need a prescription.

Other things that can cause itchiness in the groin area are allergies to rubber, garter or underwear material.  Shaving or waxing the area can also bring about folliculitis or friction dermatitis.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.