Fungal infections: If you slip on a pair of previously owned shoes, you could be inviting fungi that cause athlete’s foot and nail infections to set up home on your feet. These infections usually present as itching, redness, peeling skin, or yellowed nails rather than a nodular, firm lesion.
Why Second-Hand Shoes Are More Likely to Cause Problems
New shoes can be uncomfortable at first, but used shoes add even more concerns into the mix. They’ve already been molded to someone else’s feet, creating snug pockets of uneven pressure. Poor sanitation is yet another issue because it can transfer sweat, bacteria or fungi, which can cause irritation or infection.
How to Treat It
Switch shoes: Stop wearing the shoes that are causing the problem. Instead, choose well-built, comfortable shoes that have a wide toe box, good arch supports, and plenty of cushioning.
Soak and smooth: Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10 to 20 minutes, then use a pumice stone or emery board to gently smooth. Do not cut into the skin.
Reduce friction: Pad the area with corn pads, mole skin, or a gel toe sleeve.
Moisturize: Use urea-containing creams to soften hardened skin.