Lack of moisture causes dry patch formation, which is the major reason for the accumulation of dead skin cells around your heels. Since the feet have lesser oil glands when compared to other body areas, the moisture content is quite low, making them vulnerable to dryness and dead skin. Similarly, when the feet are constantly in closed shoes and the friction of walking results in dead skin cells. They appear to be dry, cracked on the bottom of your foot. There are many options like soaks, scrubs, and overnight treatments that help smoothen your feet. Removing dead skin cells is simple, and it makes your feet soft. Regular exfoliation removes dead cells, which allows the skin to renew with fresh, healthy cells. So, it's important to remove dead skin cells regularly, irrespective of the skin type. Here are some of the most effective home remedies to get rid of dead skin on your feet.

Best Ways to Remove Dead Skin from Your Feet

1. Pumice Stone

Pumice stone is one of the well-known foot care tools. It helps to remove dead skin and callouses from your feet without doing any damage to the skin. Remember not to use it on injured areas.

• Take a half tub of warm water and soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.
• Gently scrub your feet with pumice stone and wash your feet with normal water.
• Dry the area and apply moisturizer or coconut oil freely on your feet.

Repeat this process twice a week to exfoliate dead skin cells from the feet.

2. Lemon Juice

Lemon helps remove dead skin cells from your skin as it has a natural acidic property. It also helps to brighten up the skin and brings a refreshing feeling to your feet.  

• Take a bucket full of lukewarm water and add the juice of two fresh lemons onto it.
• Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes and scrub them with a pumice stone or any foot brush.
• Wash off with normal water. 
• Pat your feet dry and apply moisturizer.

Repeat this process as and when needed.

3. Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is an excellent moisturizer; it hydrates and softens the skin while coating the skin surface. It is also beneficial to dry and cracked feet. This wax makes your feet feel soft and moist when used. However, it increases the skin's elasticity. 

• Melt the paraffin wax and transfer it to a bowl that is big enough to accommodate your feet.
• Dip your feet in the melted, warm paraffin wax, the natural emollients of the wax open skin pores and moisturize the skin.
• When the wax hardens, pull it out, which removes the dead skin cells away with it.

Don't use paraffin wax if you have,

• a rash or open sore on your feet
• poor blood circulation

4. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt, otherwise known as magnesium sulfate or bath salt, is a mineral compound different from table salt. This salt is for external use only. It helps to exfoliate dry and cracked feet.

• Take a tub full of warm water and add 1/2 cup of Epsom salt into it.
• Soak your feet for 15 minutes and use a foot brush or pumice stone to remove dead skin.
• Dry your feet, then apply the lotion.

Do this once a week for better results.

5. Vinegar 

Vinegar comprises acidic nature, which helps remove germs and bacteria from your feet. It can help with problems like dry skin and warts. You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar to exfoliate your skin.

• In a small tub, add a 1:2 ratio of vinegar and cold water. 
• Soak your feet onto it for 15 minutes and rub gently with a pumice stone.
• Wash with normal water and apply the coconut oil. 

Use this remedy 1-2 times a week to get better outcomes.

6. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent skin exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells from your body. However, baking soda causes itching and redness. Therefore, if you have skin sensitivity or allergies, do not use baking soda.

• Mix 2 tbsp of baking soda and few drops of water to make a thick paste with medium consistency.
• Then add 1 tsp of lemon juice to the paste. 
• Clean your feet well and apply this mixture.
• Leave it for an hour and wash it off with normal water.
• Apply moisturizer on your feet to avoid dryness.

Do this weekly once.

7. Honey and Sugar

The honey helps to moisturize your skin and also protects the skin from oxidative damage. Similarly, both white and brown sugar is a great exfoliator, which can help remove dead skin from your feet and brightens them. 

• Mix a tablespoon of white or brown sugar with a teaspoon of raw honey in a bowl.
• Scrub your feet with this scrubber for 5-10 minutes.
• Rinse it off.

Do this simple remedy a couple of times a week. 

Tips to Keep Your Feet Soft and Smooth

• Exfoliate your feet routinely.
• Consume plenty of water to keep your feet supple and hydrated.
• Use a foot peel frequently.
• Avoid hot showers or baths.
• Moisturize your feet with a good moisturizer.
• Get pedicure treatments every 3-4 weeks.
• Keep away from personal hygiene products that contain alcohol, which may dry out your feet more.