Cracked heels are a usual issue for your feet. They often occur due to dry skin, poor footwear, or health concerns.
You may notice signs like dry, flaky skin. There can also be painful cracks that might bleed and get infected.
To treat cracked heels, it's good to moisturize, exfoliate the skin, and protect your feet. It's also key to manage any health problems you have.
Many home remedies can help with cracked heels. Ingredients like coconut oil and honey can calm and heal your skin. You can read more about it here.
To avoid this, be sure to regularly moisturize your feet, wear good shoes, and stay hydrated.
If you have diabetes or serious cracking, see a podiatrist or a dermatologist for suitable advice.
Cracked heels, known as heel fissures, are a common issue for many people. They occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thick, which leads to splits. While this problem is mostly about appearance, severe cases can cause pain, infections, and other problems. This is especially true for people with health conditions like diabetes. This guide looks at the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for cracked heels. It also gives tips to help keep your feet healthy.
Cracked heels happen when the skin on your heels becomes very dry. Pressure can make the skin lose its ability to stretch and then break. This issue is more likely to occur in cold and dry weather since the skin loses moisture quickly. People of all ages can get cracked heels. However, it is more common in older adults because their skin usually becomes thinner.
The top layer of the skin is called the stratum corneum. It helps to keep in moisture. If this layer gets damaged, the skin can lose hydration. This can lead to dryness and create cracks known as fissures. Some things can make this issue worse, like standing still for a long time, wearing open-back shoes, and being in hot water.
The main cause of cracked heels is not enough moisture. The skin on your heels has fewer oil glands compared to other parts of your body, so it becomes dry. Cold weather, low humidity, and washing with hot water can remove the skin's natural oils. This leads to cracking. Using strong soaps and exfoliating too much can make the skin weaker. This speeds up the loss of moisture.
Calluses are hard areas on the skin that develop on the heels due to pressure and rubbing. They serve as a protective layer for the skin. However, if they become too thick, they can make the skin less flexible. This can cause cracks, especially when you put weight on your feet. If calluses are left untreated, these cracks can get worse and result in pain and bleeding.
Wearing the wrong footwear can cause cracked heels. Open-back sandals and flip-flops allow air to reach the heels. This airflow helps moisture evaporate, which makes the heels dry (Patil et al., 2020). High heels and tight shoes put pressure on the feet in the wrong way, making the problem worse.
Many health problems can cause cracked heels. A lot of people with diabetes have nerve damage and low blood flow. This can hurt their skin's ability to heal. So, they are more likely to get heel fissures (Majeed et al., 2016). Other problems like eczema, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism can also lead to too much dryness in the skin (Bhalerao et al., 2025).
Extra body weight puts extra strain on the heels. This strain stretches the skin sideways. If the skin is dry or thick, it doesn't stretch easily. This can lead to cracks forming. That’s why people who are obese are more likely to have deep and painful fissures.
Cracked heels often start with dry and rough skin on the heel. At first, you may not see the signs since there is no pain or discomfort. If you don't care for it, this little bit of dryness can become worse. Over time, it can cause more noticeable and painful symptoms.
The first sign of cracked heels is dry, flaky, and rough skin on the heel. This occurs when the skin loses moisture from its outer layer, which is called the stratum corneum. This layer keeps the skin moist and strong. Cold weather, hot showers, and open-back shoes can cause more dryness. This makes it easier for other problems to start.
As dryness increases, small cracks begin to appear on the heels. These can either be thin lines or deeper fissures that go several layers into the skin. This occurs because the skin loses moisture and becomes less flexible. When the skin is dry, it can split easily, especially when pressure is applied from walking, standing, or using the wrong footwear.
When the cracks get deeper, they can hurt a lot. This is especially true if you walk or stand for a long time. The pain can feel sharp and sting, especially if the cracks go deep into the skin where nerves are. How much it hurts can depend on how deep the fissures are and if there are other issues, like infections or health problems such as diabetes.
In severe cases, deep cracks can start to bleed. This means the fissures have reached deep into the skin, and small blood vessels are affected (Joshi, 2016). The bleeding can stain your socks and shoes. This also adds to your discomfort and increases the risk of infection. Furthermore, cracked heels may feel more sensitive to pressure. Because of this, simple activities like walking barefoot or wearing certain types of footwear can feel painful (Hasan, 2020).
If you do not treat cracked heels, bacteria or fungi can cause an infection. Here are some signs of infection:
More redness and swelling – The area that is affected may appear puffy, feel warm, and look redder than the skin around it.
Pus discharge – This indicates a bacterial infection, which can slow down healing.
Ongoing pain and tenderness – If the pain increases instead of improving, it could mean there is an infection.
Bad smell – A bacterial infection can produce a bad odor due to tissue damage.
Studies show that infections in cracked heels can get serious if they are not treated. This is especially important for people with weak immune systems or diabetes. Bacterial infections, such as cellulitis, can begin and may require fast medical help to prevent the infection from spreading.
A major concern for people who have diabetes or peripheral neuropathy is the loss of feeling in the areas affected. When nerves are hurt, pain can't be felt well. This may lead to not realizing how severe their cracked heels are until an infection worsens. This can increase the risk of getting diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers need special care to avoid further issues.
Mild cracked heels can often be taken care of at home. However, you should visit a doctor if:
The cracks can feel deep, painful, or even bleed.
You might notice signs of infection such as swelling, redness, pus, or an unpleasant smell.
The problem could worsen despite using moisturizers and foot care products.
If you feel numbness or tingling in your heels, it might indicate nerve damage.
Early intervention can prevent problems and help heal faster. People with diabetes or blood circulation issues need to take good care of their feet. If they see any signs of cracked heels, they should visit a healthcare professional right away.
Footwear plays a big role in keeping our feet healthy. It helps prevent problems like cracked heels and dry skin. The right shoes feel comfortable and help share body weight evenly. This lowers the pressure on the heels. However, wearing the wrong shoes can cause issues like calluses and deep heel fissures (Majeed et al., 2016).
Open-back shoes, such as flip-flops and sandals, can be stylish and comfortable. However, they lack proper support for your heels. Since these shoes do not cover the heel, they can make your skin lose moisture and become dry (Hasan, 2020). With time, this dryness can lead to cracking, especially if you regularly walk on hard surfaces or stand for long periods.
Wearing shoes that don't fit right can make foot problems worse. If shoes are too tight, they press hard on the heels. This can cause skin injuries and reduce blood flow. On the other hand, shoes that are too loose don't hold the foot properly. The foot can move around and create friction. This friction can make heel cracks worse (Philpott, 2017).
High-heeled shoes can create problems for your heels. They shift your body weight forward. This causes more pressure on the front of your feet and does not support your heels. Over time, this can cause callus formation and heel fissures.
To keep your heels healthy, it is important to pick the right shoes. Here are some key things to look for in supportive footwear:
Wearing shoes that have good arch support helps distribute your weight evenly across your feet. This reduces the pressure on your heels. If you have problems like plantar fasciitis, which can lead to heel pain, shoes with proper arch support can help you feel better (Ratajczak et al., 2022).
Shoes with cushioned or padded insoles offer more comfort. They absorb shock and reduce the impact on your heels when you walk or run. Gel or foam insoles also help stop heel fissures caused by pressure (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
Closed-back shoes are better than open-back shoes. They help keep moisture in your skin and reduce dryness. By covering your heel, these shoes keep dust and dirt away. This helps stop irritation on your skin. It also lowers the risk of infection, especially if there are any cracks.
Shoes should feel comfortable. They must not be too tight or too loose. A good fit helps prevent rubbing and protects the skin. Using materials like leather or mesh allows air to flow. This keeps moisture levels balanced inside the shoe. A proper balance helps prevent dryness.
For people with specific foot issues or those who need extra heel support, custom orthotics can be very helpful. Orthotics are designed to provide support that meets your needs. They help correct foot problems and evenly distribute pressure across the bottom of your foot. These devices can also absorb shock. This can reduce stress on your heels and help prevent cracks from developing.
Custom orthotics are particularly beneficial for:
People who have flat feet or high arches should use orthotics. These conditions make weight not even across the foot.
Individuals with diabetes may need orthotics. They risk getting foot ulcers and require extra cushion for comfort.
Those who suffer from heel spurs or plantar fasciitis can find relief with orthotics. These devices help reduce pressure on sore spots.
Taking care of your feet is very important, just like choosing the right footwear. Good habits can help ensure your heels are safe and healthy.
Rotate shoes regularly – Try not to wear the same shoes every day. This can help prevent wear in certain spots on your feet.
Avoid prolonged use of flip-flops – Wear flip-flops only when walking short distances. They are not made for long walks or standing for a long time.
Use moisturizing insoles – Some insoles can help keep your feet moisturized. This can keep them from getting too dry.
Replace worn-out shoes – Shoes can lose their cushioning and support over time. This may cause more foot issues.
Footwear is key to keeping your heels healthy. The right shoes can help prevent cracked heels, calluses, and foot pain. Choosing shoes that fit well and provide support, cushioning, and arch support helps keep your heels soft. This may also stop more serious foot issues from happening. For those with ongoing foot problems, custom orthotics give extra support and comfort. By selecting the right footwear, people can reduce the chance of pain in their heels and enhance their overall foot health.
Healing cracked heels needs a combination of exfoliation, deep hydration, and regular foot care. If your cracks are mild, you can often treat them at home. It's essential to use the right tools and ingredients for good results (Majeed et al., 2016). The goal is to soften the skin, gently remove dead skin cells, and hydrate deeply. This will help make your skin more flexible and prevent new cracks. You can find most of the needed products at drugstores or even make them with natural ingredients at home.
To begin your treatment, you need some key tools. These tools assist with exfoliation and hydration.
A foot soak is the best way to treat cracked heels. Soaking your feet makes tough skin softer. This helps you get rid of dead skin easily. You can add Epsom salt or apple cider vinegar to the soak. This will help soften the skin more and can prevent bacteria from causing infections.
A pumice stone or a foot file is important for exfoliation. These tools help to gently remove layers of dead skin that may feel thick. This practice can reduce the chance of cracks becoming worse (Hasan, 2020). Use these tools on damp skin after soaking your feet. Be sure to apply light pressure to prevent any irritation.
Hydration is key to preventing and fixing cracked heels. Pick thick, oil-based moisturizers that include active ingredients like:
Urea – A powerful moisturizer that pulls moisture into the skin and helps remove dead skin cells.
Salicylic acid – Takes away the upper layer of skin and helps make heels feel smoother.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) – Speed up cell growth and improve skin texture.
Moisturizing socks and heel sleeves are great for keeping moisture in after you put on a foot cream or balm. These products often have hydrating gels, aloe vera, or essential oils inside. They can help heal dry and cracked heels while you sleep. If you wear them regularly, they can stop moisture loss. They also protect your heels from friction and outside elements.
Moisturizing Socks – These socks are soft and breathable. They help keep moisture in and improve how foot creams or balms soak in.
Heel Sleeves – These are protectors filled with gel. They provide hydration right to the heel while reducing friction and pressure on cracks.
Using these products overnight or for a couple of hours each day can really help heal cracked heels.
After you use moisturizer or natural remedies, wearing cotton socks can help to keep your feet hydrated at night. Cotton socks also reduce friction. This can help protect cracked heels from getting worse (Philpott, 2017).
Cracked heels can happen due to dry skin and other factors around you. They can cause discomfort and even infections if not taken care of. A good way to help heal your feet is to use special products like NatraCure's Moisturizing Gel Heel Sleeves. Adding these to your foot care routine can make a big difference.
NatraCure's Moisturizing Gel Heel Sleeves are made to give special moisture and safety for dry and cracked heels. Here’s how they work:
Deep Moisturization: The sleeves have a special gel with essential oils and vitamins. This gel deeply moisturizes the skin. It helps to repair and soften cracked heels.
Continuous Hydration: Wearing the sleeves keeps moisture on the heel area. This prevents more drying and helps with healing.
Protection from Friction: The sleeves work as a barrier. They reduce friction from footwear, which can worsen heel fissures.
To use these sleeves in your foot care routine:
Cleanse and Soak: Start by washing your feet with warm water and a gentle soap. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin.
Exfoliate: Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove dead skin. This helps the moisturizer soak in better.
Apply Moisturizer: After drying your feet, put a thick, oil-based moisturizer on your heels.
Wear the Sleeves: Put on the NatraCure Moisturizing Gel Heel Sleeves over your moisturized heels. For the best results, wear them overnight or for several hours during the day.
Maintain Regular Care: Keep using the sleeves and continue to moisturize daily. This will help you avoid dryness and cracking in the future.
Using NatraCure's Moisturizing Gel Heel Sleeves in your foot care routine can help treat cracked heels. This will promote faster healing and keep your skin soft and healthy.
Moisturizers and exfoliants are great together for treating and preventing cracked heels. They help by keeping the skin hydrated and soft. They also remove dead skin layers.
Moisturizers play a key role in fixing cracked heels. They add moisture back to the skin and make it more flexible. Here are the best moisturizers for heel fissures:
Thick, oil-based creams – These create a layer that stops moisture from leaving.
Occlusive agents like petroleum jelly and lanolin – They keep moisture locked in the skin to prevent it from getting dry.
Humectants such as glycerin and urea – These help pull in and hold moisture in the skin.
Exfoliation helps prevent thick, dry skin from forming and cracking. Good exfoliating ingredients are key for this process.
Salicylic Acid
This is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). It helps get rid of dead skin cells. This makes it easier to remove calluses and rough areas (Majeed et al., 2016).
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
These softly break down the top layer of dead skin cells. They help your skin renew more quickly and feel smoother. Some examples of AHAs include lactic acid, glycolic acid, and citric acid (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
Pumice Stone or Foot Scrub
Using a pumice stone once or twice a week can help remove hard skin. This can lower calluses, which helps stop heel cracking (Jagtap & Wadnerwar, 2021).
⚠️ Exfoliate Gently: Scrubbing too hard can cause small tears in your skin, making cracks worse. Always exfoliate on wet skin. Use a moisturizer after to keep your skin hydrated.
For those who like natural treatments, there are several home remedies to moisturize, soothe, and heal cracked heels. These natural ingredients provide hydration and nourishment. They are also kind to the skin.
Coconut oil is well-known for its ability to keep the skin moisturized. It contains fatty acids that help heal the skin barrier and keep moisture inside. Coconut oil is also antibacterial and antifungal. This quality makes it a good option for preventing infections in cracked heels (Joshi, 2016).
Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E. These vitamins support the healing of the skin and help create new cells. Shea butter works well for dry and rough skin. If you use it regularly, it can also help prevent further cracking of the skin (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
Honey is a natural ingredient that helps bring moisture into the skin. It also fights germs, which can prevent infections in cracked heels. If you use a honey mask on dry and cracked skin, it can ease irritation and help the healing process.
Olive oil is packed with beneficial antioxidants and healthy fats that help keep the skin moisturized. By rubbing warm olive oil on your heels, you can make the skin softer and more elastic. This practice may reduce the chances of cracks forming (Hasan, 2020).
Avocados are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins E and C. These nutrients can help nourish and heal damaged skin. If you apply mashed avocado to cracked heels, it provides plenty of moisture and aids in renewing the skin (Philpott, 2017).
The inside of a banana peel contains potassium and amino acids. These are good for softening and repairing cracked skin. Rubbing the inside of a banana peel on your heels for several minutes can help moisturize dry spots.
Home remedies can be good for mild to moderate cases. Still, some problems need medical help. You should visit a dermatologist or a podiatrist if:
The cracks keep getting worse, even with treatment.
The heels feel sore, puffy, or red.
There are signs of infection, like pus, redness, or a bad smell.
You have diabetes or circulatory problems. These can cause more issues.
Healing cracked heels requires a simple routine. This routine should soften, exfoliate, hydrate, and protect the skin. This guide gives you an easy step-by-step way to make your heels smooth and healthy. It will also help prevent future fissures.
⚠️ Consistency is important! Taking care of your feet every day can help prevent cracked heels from worsening or returning. Include these steps in your daily foot care routine for the best results over time (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
Before you begin any treatments, you should soften your skin. This helps remove dead cells easily and without causing any pain to your skin.
Soak your feet in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes. This will help soften calluses. It will also make exfoliation easier.
Fill a foot basin or bathtub with warm water. Avoid hot water; it can lead to more dryness in your skin.
Add a mild, moisturizing soap or a foot soak solution.
Optional: You can put in Epsom salt for a deep clean or apple cider vinegar for its antibacterial effects.
Do not use harsh soaps or strong cleansers. These can strip away your skin's natural oils and make dryness worse (Patil et al., 2020).
Once your skin feels soft, take a pumice stone or foot file. Use it to gently remove dead skin.
Use soft, circular movements to avoid irritation.
Do not scrub too hard. It can damage healthy skin and make more fissures (Hasan, 2020).
If your heels are very cracked, exfoliate just once or twice a week. This will help the skin heal.
After exfoliation:
Clean your feet well with warm water to remove dead skin.
Dry them with a clean towel, focusing on the areas between your toes. This helps prevent fungal infections.
Once your skin is clean and scrubbed, the next step is to keep it moisturized and support its healing.
Use a thick moisturizer with oil that is designed for feet. Look for key ingredients such as:
Urea – It helps to keep moisture and softens hard skin (Jagtap & Wadnerwar, 2021).
Salicylic Acid – It helps to remove dead skin and supports the growth of new skin cells.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) – They help with skin renewal and increase skin elasticity (Philpott, 2017).
Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline®) – It acts as a barrier that locks in moisture.
Apply the moisturizer to your heels using circular motions to help it absorb better.
Focus on the cracks and areas around them.
Moisturize at least twice a day, especially after you shower, while your skin is still damp.
To stay hydrated, use moisturizing socks or silicone heel sleeves while you sleep. These products provide moisture to your feet. They trap moisture and prevent extra dryness (Ratajczak et al., 2022).
Moisturizing socks have gels that keep your feet soft and hydrated.
Heel sleeves give targeted hydration and reduce rubbing.
Wearing them at night helps your skin heal faster.
For deep cracks or painful fissures, you might need additional protection. This can speed up healing and prevent infection.
For deep cracks that bleed or feel painful, a liquid bandage can help close the gap. It protects the area from bacterial infections (Hasan, 2020). These bandages act as a waterproof shield and still allow the skin to breathe.
Make sure to clean the area well before using it.
Apply the liquid bandage over the cracks.
Allow it to dry before putting on socks or shoes.
Petroleum jelly creates a solid barrier against moisture. It protects cracked heels from environmental factors that could irritate them.
Apply a thick layer on clean, dry feet before going to bed.
Put on socks to help the moisture soak in overnight.
If you stand a long time, heel cushions can reduce pressure and prevent further damage (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
Soak up shock and reduce pressure on cracked heels.
Offer backing and padding for extra comfort.
Aid in preventing deeper cracks.
Once your heels feel better, it is important to have a regular routine to care for your feet. This will help prevent the problem from coming back.
✔️ Moisturize daily to make your skin feel soft and hydrated.
✔️ Wear proper footwear – Avoid open-back sandals and pick supportive shoes instead.
✔️ Exfoliate regularly but gently (1-2 times a week).
✔️ Drink plenty of water to keep your skin moist from the inside.
✔️ Use moisturizing socks or heel balms for added moisture.
❌ Walking without shoes on hard surfaces.
❌ Hot showers and strong soaps take away moisture from the skin.
❌ Scrubbing too much can hurt healthy skin and make cracks worse.
Healing cracked heels requires a steady routine. You need to soak, scrub, hydrate, and shield your skin. Following these steps daily can make your heels feel soft and smooth again. It also helps stop new cracks from happening.
If symptoms keep happening even with regular care, you should see a doctor for help. A doctor can find the core problems and help prevent complications.
Once your cracked heels feel better, you should start a regular foot care routine. This will help stop cracks from returning and keep your skin healthy. If you don't care for your feet, dryness and fissures can come back. This may cause discomfort and lead to infections. Here are some steps to help you maintain healthy heels in the long run.
Hydration is very important to stop cracked heels. The skin on your heels has less oil. This causes the skin to get dry more easily (Jagtap & Wadnerwar, 2021). Applying a good foot cream every day helps keep your skin soft and flexible.
✔️ Apply moisturizer twice daily – once in the morning and once at night.
✔️ Choose a foot cream that contains:
Urea is good for hydrating and softening your skin deeply.
Lactic acid or salicylic acid helps to gently remove dead skin.
Shea butter, coconut oil, or petroleum jelly keep moisture from leaving your skin.
✔️ Rub the cream into your heels to help it soak in better.
✔️ Wear moisturizing socks or heel sleeves overnight for extra hydration (Hasan, 2020).
Exfoliating regularly helps remove dead skin cells. This prevents thick calluses from forming. If calluses do form, they can cause heel fissures.
✔️ Use a pumice stone or foot file 1-2 times each week on damp skin after your shower.
✔️ Avoid scrubbing too hard. This can weaken your skin and cause irritation.
✔️ Add gentle chemical exfoliants, like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), in your foot creams for gentle renewal (Philpott, 2017).
✔️ After you exfoliate, apply a thick moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Shoes play a big role in foot health and preventing cracked heels. When shoes are not the right fit, they can increase pressure on the heels. This extra pressure may lead to thicker, drier skin that can crack.
✔️ Choose shoes that have good support and soft padding. This will help reduce the impact on your heels.
✔️ Avoid open-back sandals and flip-flops. They can let air reach your heels, which makes them lose moisture.
✔️ Wear breathable socks. These can lower friction and keep your heels from drying out.
✔️ Think about custom orthotic inserts if you have foot issues like flat feet or plantar fasciitis (Ratajczak et al., 2022).
Look at your feet regularly. This will help you spot any dryness or cracks early. If you notice flaky skin or rough spots, take action quickly (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
✔️ Check your heels every day for any signs of dryness, peeling, or redness.
✔️ Apply an extra layer of moisturizer as soon as you notice the first sign of rough skin.
✔️ If you see cracks, use a liquid bandage to stop them from getting worse.
People with diabetes are more likely to have foot problems. These issues can be cracked heels, infections, and ulcers (Hasan, 2020). Caring for your feet can help prevent these serious problems. Proper foot care is very important.
✔️ Visit a podiatrist regularly for foot check-ups.
✔️ Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard, since it can cause slow-healing wounds.
✔️ Use gentle moisturizers that are fragrance-free to prevent irritation.
✔️ Wear therapeutic shoes and diabetic socks for more protection.
Stopping cracked heels is easier than fixing them. You can keep your skin soft and avoid painful cracks all year. Moisturize your skin, choose the right footwear, and make simple lifestyle changes.
Dry skin is a big reason why people get cracked heels. To keep your feet smooth and healthy, it is important to stay hydrated both inside and outside. (Philpott, 2017).
✔️ Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside.
✔️ Use a humidifier in dry places to help your skin hold onto moisture.
✔️ Apply a foot cream each day that contains hydrating ingredients like urea and petroleum jelly (Patil et al., 2020).
Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to heel cracking and foot discomfort. It is important that shoes provide good support, absorb shocks, and keep moisture away.
✔️ Wear shoes that cover your heels and have soft bottoms.
✔️ Don't walk without shoes on hard floors. It can put too much pressure on your heels.
✔️ Replace your old shoes if they no longer support your heels.
Thick calluses can crack over time and go deeper. This can hurt and raise the risk of infection (Singh & Tayade, 2021).
✔️ Use a pumice stone one time each week to remove extra dead skin.
✔️ Apply a foot exfoliating cream that contains gentle acids (AHAs or BHAs).
✔️ Moisturize every day to prevent callus from forming.
If your heels feel rough or flaky, you should act fast to stop it from getting worse (Hasan, 2020).
✔️ Apply an extra layer of foot cream before bedtime.
✔️ Put on moisturizing socks or heel sleeves overnight to keep your feet well-hydrated.
✔️ Use a gentle exfoliant to remove dry skin before cracks appear.
Heel dryness happens more often in winter because of cold weather and less humidity (Philpott, 2017). Changing what you do can help keep your heels soft throughout the year.
✔️ Winter – Use thick creams and humidifiers to help with dryness.
✔️ Summer – Protect your heels from heat and UV rays, which can dry out the skin.
✔️ All year – Stay consistent with exfoliation and hydration.
Cracked heels are a common foot problem, but you can stop them before they start. They often begin with mild dryness and can turn into painful fissures. These can make daily life difficult. By understanding what causes cracked heels, recognizing early signs, and following a good treatment plan, people can feel better and prevent this issue from coming back.
The key to keeping your heels healthy for a long time is by taking care of your feet regularly. This includes moisturizing every day and exfoliating once a week. You should also pick supportive footwear to reduce pressure on your heels. If you have health issues like diabetes, be extra cautious. This can help you avoid problems such as infections or nerve damage.
Prevention is always better than treatment. You can keep your feet smooth, comfortable, and healthy throughout the year by following simple steps. Some of these steps are staying hydrated, wearing the right shoes, and treating dry skin early. If the problems continue even after trying home remedies, it is important to see a podiatrist or dermatologist for proper medical help.
Taking care of your heels is important. It helps you walk with confidence and feel comfortable. You can avoid the pain and discomfort caused by cracked heels.
You should moisturize your feet at least two times a day. Do this once in the morning and once before you go to sleep. If you have very dry feet, you might need to use moisturizer more often. A thick, oil-based moisturizer can help keep your skin hydrated. After you apply it, you can consider wearing cotton socks to hold in the moisture overnight. This will help improve hydration more.
Yes, if you do not treat cracked heels, they can worsen over time. This can lead to pain, bleeding, and a greater risk of infection. This is especially concerning for people with diabetes or poor circulation. Deep cracks can allow bacteria in, which might cause cellulitis or foot ulcers. If your cracked heels begin to swell, become red, or feel painful, it is important to see a doctor.
To speed up the healing process:
Start with a warm foot soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This will help soften your skin.
Gently exfoliate your feet. Use a pumice stone or a foot file to get rid of dead skin.
Apply a thick moisturizer that contains urea, salicylic acid, or shea butter.
Seal in the moisture with petroleum jelly or a foot balm.
Wear moisturizing socks or heel sleeves overnight. This helps your skin absorb the products better.
If you have deep cracks, use liquid bandages. They will help protect and heal the cracks (Patil et al., 2020).
Cracked heels occur when the skin dries out and becomes thick. This leads to less flexibility and creates cracks in the skin. Some common reasons for this are:
Dry skin can happen because of the environment, like cold weather and low humidity.
Walking or standing for a long time on hard floors can also cause problems.
Wearing open-back shoes can leave your heels open to air, which may make them dry.
Some medical conditions can cause dry skin, including diabetes, hypothyroidism, eczema, psoriasis, and keratoderma.
Taking hot showers too often and using rough soaps can take away natural oils from your skin.
If you have deep cracks that hurt or bleed, you may need to see a doctor. A podiatrist can help you.
Use debridement to carefully take away thick dead skin.
Apply antibacterial or medicated creams to prevent infections.
Recommend special dressings or bandages to shield the cracks and help them heal quicker (Philpott, 2017). For home care, keep the area clean, moisturized, and safe until the skin heals.
Petroleum jelly (Vaseline®) does not heal cracks on its own. But it is excellent for stopping moisture loss. It creates a barrier that keeps hydration in and helps protect the skin from irritation. For the best results:
Apply a thick layer of Vaseline before you go to bed.
Wear cotton socks while you sleep to help it soak in more.
Use it with a routine to exfoliate and remove dead skin before applying it. However, if you have oily skin or acne, be cautious not to use it too often. That’s because petroleum products can sometimes block pores for some people (Hasan, 2020).
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