As the largest organ in (or on) our bodies, our skin endures more damage than any other organ. UV light, blunt trauma, chemicals, dryness and dampness; the skin is phenomenal in its' ability to accommodate change. One of the harshest environments encountered by the skin is the environment we create by wearing enclosed shoes. And the worst culprit of them all is the toe box.

The toe box of the shoe is the semi-circle that covers and protects the toes. Remember those cute little red and white sneakers that your mom got you when you just started to walk? Remember how they had that white rubber toe? That's the toe box. But consider what a rubber toe box like that does to your skin. The rubber holds in moisture. This promotes excessive perspiration and creates a terrible environment for the skin. So we grew up and grew out of the rubber sneakers, but guess what? Most shoes have a toe box to stiffen the shoe and promote the durability of the shoes. As a result we see toe box problems in a host of other shoes including work boots (especially safety shoes), clogs, oxfords and others. Simply reach into the shoe and feel for the materials that make up the toe box.

Dermatitis is a generic term used to describe any condition that exhibits inflammation of the skin. The environment in a shoe is pretty harsh, but when you manufacture the shoe with materials that can't vent moisture, dermatitis is bound to occur. The term toe box dermatitis is one that comes from pediatrics and is typically seen with the cute little rubber sneakers. But toe box dermatitis can occur at any age. Toe box dermatitis is simply the result of the contrast found when wearing a shoe (sweaty and hot) compared to being barefoot (cool and dry). As a result we see peeling and redness in the skin or what we call dermatitis.

To treat toe box dermatitis, first take a careful look at the materials that are used to manufacture the shoe. Consider rotating shoes, wearing then only once every other day. Powders and sprays can help to wick away moisture from the foot. And lastly, frequent changes of socks will always help.