What causes peeling skin on feet in children?

Some of the common causes of desquamation on children's feet include dermatitis, lichen planus, psoriasis, pink disease and Kawasaki syndrome. The flaking and shedding of the skin may occur on both feet and hands.

According to the Mayo Clinic, peeling of the skin may be accompanied by other symptoms, which can help a doctor with the diagnosis. For example, when the peeling skin is caused by psoriasis, the skin may become thicker and present white scales or patches. In other cases, the epidermis, which is the top layer of the skin, may show signs of itching, dryness or a rash.