Powered By
Psoriasis can develop on any part of your body, including your feet. When psoriasis affects the soles, it can make walking, standing, or wearing socks and shoes painful. You may find that certain psoriasis socks, shoe inserts, or a moisturizing routine help you stay more comfortable during a flare.
MyPsoriasisTeam members have asked others what types of socks they wear to manage their symptoms. “I am having issues with the bottoms of my feet — they feel raw and very unhappy in socks and shoes all day,” one member wrote. “Anyone know of a good brand of socks that don’t aggravate our sensitive skin?”
In this article, we’ll discuss sock fabrics, gel socks, moisturizing socks, lotion socks, and other foot-comfort tips that may help people living with foot psoriasis.
Sign up to view the results!
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
When you think of your psoriasis symptoms, you might focus on the more commonly affected areas, such as the scalp, elbows, or knees.
However, psoriasis can also develop on the soles of your feet.
Psoriasis on the hands or feet is known as palmoplantar psoriasis, and it affects 12 percent to 16 percent of people with psoriasis. It can be a high-impact form of psoriasis because it can make walking or standing painful.
Plaque palmoplantar psoriasis may cause discolored, dry, thickened skin and painful cracks on the bottoms of the feet. Pustules (small bumps filled with pus) on the soles are more often linked with palmoplantar pustulosis, a pustular condition that can affect the palms and soles. Toenail psoriasis may also cause nail discoloration, pitting, thickening, or lifting from the nail bed.
Take Care of Your Feet With Psoriasis It’s important to practice proper foot and skin care if you’re living with foot psoriasis. Wash your feet regularly with warm water and a gentle soap to avoid drying out your skin. To combat dry skin on the feet and cracked heels, moisturize regularly. Your dermatologist may also prescribe a topical treatment to help clear your skin.
If thick scales on your feet make walking uncomfortable, ask your dermatologist how to soften or remove them safely. Don’t pick at scales or use exfoliating products without guidance. Injury, irritation, and friction can trigger psoriasis in some people, including on the feet.
The wide range of fabrics available can make it challenging to determine the best option. One MyPsoriasisTeam member asked, “Anyone have ideas on good, comfy, warm, loose socks? My legs are so bad that socks are difficult.” For those with psoriasis on their feet, choosing the right fabric can make a world of difference in symptoms and comfort level.
Researchers have investigated whether some sock fabrics may be more helpful than others for plantar pustulosis. In one small randomized trial, 17 people wore a fluorine-synthetic fiber sock on one foot and a cotton sock on the other for four weeks. The study’s main outcome — reduction in lesion area at four weeks — was not statistically significant, so it doesn’t prove that synthetic socks are better than cotton socks for foot psoriasis.
In everyday life, the best socks for psoriasis are usually soft, breathable, and comfortable. Cotton can be a good choice, and moisture-wicking fabrics can also help keep sweat away from the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends socks made of cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics for sweaty feet.
Many MyPsoriasisTeam members wear cotton socks both during the day and at night. One shared, “I normally always wear cotton socks.”
Other members have found that gel socks are helpful. “I’ve been wearing gel socks — they are great. They keep my feet soft and supple, and they can be washed as well,” one member said. Because gel socks are products, not psoriasis treatments, check the label and stop using them if they sting, burn, or irritate your skin.
Try socks that don’t bunch, rub, pinch, or leave deep marks. If seams bother your skin, look for seamless or flat-seam options. A looser cuff may feel better if tight elastic irritates plaques or sensitive skin.
Many MyPsoriasisTeam members recommend applying moisturizer to their feet at night, then wearing clean cotton socks to help lock in hydration. This can turn regular socks into moisturizing socks for dry feet. Some members call them lotion socks because they help keep moisturizer in place.
Covering the skin after applying a moisturizer may help the product penetrate better. Healthcare providers may also recommend covering skin after applying some topical psoriasis treatments, especially on thick skin on the feet. However, covering medicated skin can increase absorption, so use cotton socks, bandages, or cling film over prescription medication only if your clinician recommends it.
MyPsoriasisTeam members have shared different routines. One member said, “My long socks help keep the lotion on.” Another wrote, “My feet hurt, itch, burn, and get really rough. I use CeraVe cream. I put it on my feet really thick and put cotton socks on, and it really helps.”
For best results, pull on a fresh pair of socks after you’ve cleaned your feet and applied a moisturizer, such as a thick cream or ointment. The Psoriasis Association notes that covering moisturized feet may help moisturizer penetrate the skin better. Wear the socks overnight if it feels comfortable. If your feet become soggy, itchy, or more irritated, stop and ask your dermatologist what to try instead.
Compression Socks for Foot Swelling or Circulation Concerns Some MyPsoriasisTeam members have asked others how they manage foot pain amid psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). PsA affects about 1 in 3 people with psoriasis and may cause pain, swelling, or stiffness in the feet and ankles.
“I’m not only in pain, but my skin is feeling like someone used it for a dartboard,” one member said. “Has anyone ever had problems with blood circulation, or at least the feeling of not getting blood to your feet?”
“Soaking in Epsom salts each night helps,” one member replied. “Sit and put your feet up whenever possible. Compression socks have helped me.” Another shared, “Grease your feet up well (with a zinc-based cream) and put on a compression sock.”
Compression socks are mainly used to support blood flow in leg veins and reduce leg swelling. They aren’t a treatment for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis itself. If you’re interested in compression socks, ask a healthcare provider whether they’re appropriate for you and what pressure, size, and length to use. Compression garments should be checked for correct fit and pressure.
Compression may not be safe for everyone. People with poor arterial circulation, severe neuropathy, certain heart problems, or fragile skin may need to avoid compression or use it only with close medical guidance. If compression socks increase pain, numbness, color changes, rubbing, or skin breakdown, remove them and contact a healthcare provider.
Get updates directly to your inbox.
What is a good brand of pure cotton socks for women?
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Become a member to get even more
Join
Your Privacy Choices
This is a member-feature!
Sign up for free to view article comments.
White cotton socks, works for me. I had a doctor tell me not to wear colored socks, dye is bad on places on the foot
We'd love to hear from you! Please share your name and email to post and read comments.
You'll also get the latest articles directly to your inbox.