Winter weather can leave your feet dry and chapped, but it doesn't have to. With the right skincare routine, you can have happy toes and comfy feet the whole winter through. Use these helpful tips in addition to your regular skincare practices:

Choose Moisture-Wicking Socks

Heavy winter boots can protect your feet from the cold, but they can also leave your feet warm and sweaty. Moisture-wicking socks help to keep your feet dry, which can, in turn, prevent peeling and chapping. Choose thick socks with moisture-wicking properties to guard against the cold while keeping the inside of each sock dry and comfortable. You should also pair your socks with warm, weather-appropriate footwear, such as snow boots.

Use A Daily Moisturizing Cream

The skin on the bottom of your feet can become dry and rough without a moisturizing cream. Look for a product make specifically for your feet, and apply it daily. Consider using the cream after you've showered and exfoliated your skin, and if necessary, apply the cream again before bed. Compare different creams to find the most effective option for your skin. If you have particularly sensitive skin, opt for a fragrance-free cream made from natural ingredients.

Avoid Wearing Wet Shoes

Wet shoes or boots can leave your feet cold when you are outside, and they can also create the perfect conditions for fungus or bacteria to thrive. Place your footwear upside down on top of a rug or towel to dry them, and if possible, remove any insoles inside of the shoes or boots. You can toss the insoles in your dryer on low heat to remove moisture from them. It's also a good idea to pack an extra pair of socks and shoes in your work or school bag so you can keep your feet dry even after trudging through thick snow and ice.

Soak Your Feet

Soaking your feet in warm water can be a great way to beat the cold, and it can also help to ease aches and pains that can sometimes come with cold weather. Consider purchasing a foot spa from your local discount store or pharmacy, and add Epsom salts and essential oils. The Epsom salt can help to soften your skin, while the essential oils offer an aromatherapy component. Look at this option as a way to pamper your feet at the end of a long day.

If you suspect you have foot fungus, or if your dry skin starts to crack and bleed, contact a podiatrist. You may need prescription-strength cream to combat these problems and restore your soft, smooth skin. For more information on choosing an effective foot cream, contact a medical office near you.