Peeling and blistering of your baby’s feet can be distressful, especially if your baby is also experiencing other symptoms of discomfort such as a fever or itching. Foot peeling and blistering can be caused by a variety of factors and conditions, some that require the attention and treatment of a pediatrician.
Signs
Blistering and peeling of your baby’s feet can range from minor to extreme. Besides the feet, you can sometimes notice blistering on your baby’s hands and mouth. The blistering and peeling can range from white to red, affecting the entire foot or localized to just one area. Peeling and blistering feet can be accompanied by other symptoms such as inflammation, itching, fever, redness and swelling.
Triggers
Your baby’s feet can peel and form blisters if they are exposed to too much moisture. This can occur if you frequently enclose your baby’s feet in heavy socks or footwear or improperly dry his feet after bath time. Improperly fitting shoes and socks can also promote blisters. Blistering and peeling feet can also be due to a skin condition such as eczema or a viral infection like athlete’s foot -- or even hand, foot and mouth disease.
Treatments & Prevention
With your pediatrician’s approval, apply a baby powder or anti-fungal cream to your baby’s feet several times per day. Keep her feet bare, dry and clean as much as you can while symptoms persist -- even while your baby is sleeping. Always dry your baby’s feet thoroughly, especially between the toes where moisture can accumulate, after any exposure to water. A pediatrician may prescribe antibiotics for foot blisters and peeling caused by bacteria.
Considerations
See a doctor if your baby’s foot irritation does not improve within a few days, is accompanied by a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, or you notice signs of an infection such as yellow crusted, bright red or inflamed blisters. Do not take your baby to daycare or expose him to other children if you suspect a virus such as hand, foot and mouth disease because it is extremely contagious.