Fissured feet, a common yet neglected dermatosis, cause significant morbidity due to pain, cracking, and potential secondary infections. While keratolytic agents like salicylic acid are commonly used, treatment remains inconsistent in efficacy. Tazarotene 0.1% cream, a third-generation topical retinoid approved for psoriasis, has demonstrated keratinocyte-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential novel agent for managing fissured feet. However, its use in this indication is largely unexplored.

This randomized, interventional, prospective study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of topical tazarotene 0.1% cream versus salicylic acid 12% ointment in the treatment of fissured feet. A total of 80 patients (40 per group) attending the dermatology outpatient department at Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences will be enrolled between March 2024 and March 2026. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: Group A will receive tazarotene 0.1% cream and Group B will receive salicylic acid 12% ointment, both applied once daily for 90 days, alongside a bland emollient.

Outcomes will be assessed through clinical scoring, photographic documentation, and symptom relief at 30-day intervals. Primary endpoints include reduction in fissure depth, pain, and callus formation; secondary endpoints include adverse effects and patient compliance.

The study addresses an important therapeutic gap in managing heel fissures, especially in the Indian context where socio-cultural factors exacerbate the condition. Findings may offer dermatologists an evidence-based, steroid-sparing alternative with better cosmetic outcomes