What’s happening with your feet
When the skin on your feet becomes thickened, rough or cracked, it’s usually a response to one (or more) of the following:

Pressure or friction: If you stand a lot, walk on hard surfaces, wear shoes that don’t fit well, your heels or balls of feet bear extra load. The skin responds by building extra layers.

Dryness / lack of moisture: The skin loses its flexibility, the outer layer (stratum corneum) becomes stiff/less pliable, making it easier to crack or form thick patches. Water’s Edge Dermatology+1

Reduced shedding / build-up of dead skin: Without regular exfoliation or softening, dead skin accumulates and hardens, making the area visibly thicker and less comfortable.

Underlying causes: Foot shape abnormalities, gait issues, ill-fitting shoes, barefoot walking on hard surfaces, or even medical issues like poor circulation or diabetes can make the skin more

What you’re seeing and feeling (thickened, rough patches, perhaps cracks) is the skin’s protective response—but it can become painful, reduce comfort, and increase infection risk (especially if cracks develop). So it’s both a cosmetic and comfort/health issue.

Why you can do quite a bit at home (safely)