Dry skin of the feet is a common dermatological condition that affects the quality of life of a wide range of individuals, particularly those at increased risk, such as patients with diabetes. Due to the specific anatomical and functional characteristics of the skin of the feet, as well as its increased exposure to mechanical stress, the appropriate selection of cosmetic products is crucial for maintaining the skin barrier, preventing fissures and preserving skin hydration. Pharmacies play a central role in this regard, as they provide dermatologically tested products specifically formulated for different levels of skin dryness and specific clinical needs. This thesis presents an overview of the composition of cosmetic products intended for the care of dry skin of the feet, available in pharmacies and online pharmacies. A total of 52 selected cosmetic products were categorized according to their dosage form and the frequency of occurrence of individual cosmetically active ingredients with moisturizing properties, plant-derived ingredients, fragrances and preservatives was analyzed.
Regarding dosage forms, creams were the most prevalent among the products, followed by balms, lotions, ointments and foams. The results indicate that the products contain ingredients with moisturizing effects, namely humectants, emollients and oclusive, which are essential for the care of dry skin of the feet. The most commonly used humectant is glycerol, followed by urea and panthenol. The occlusives most frequently found in the analyzed cosmetic products are dimethicone, liquid paraffin and petrolatum. Among emollients, the most frequently used are isopropyl palmitate and cetearyl alcohol, followed by shea butter. Among plant derived ingredients, shea butter was the most frequently present, followed by lavander and rosemary essential oils. Among fragrances, perfume (fragrance) was the most common, followed by individual fragrance components. Among preservatives, phenoxyethanol was the most frequenly used, followed by potassium sorbate and methylparaben. The review of the composition of cosmetic products for the care of dry foot skin available in pharmacies provides important insight into current formulation approaches, the use of cosmetically active ingredients and the differences between general products and those intended for specific populations, such as individuals with diabetes. The findings may assist pharmacy professionals in providing advice and represent a useful overview of the available options for end users.
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