Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels is when the dry thick skin on your heel splits
The skin on the sole is usually drier as compared to other body parts. The skin then becomes extremely dry and thick and is prone to crack based on a number of factors
Having cracked heels is unattractive! And also when the skin cracks and left untreated it may cause pain and infections since the skin is open and exposed to germs.
Calluses need to be treated before they cause more harm.
What causes Cracked Heels?
- Dry Skin– Having dry skin makes you prone to calluses when not effectively moisturized especially during the winter season or colder months. Low humidity during cold season and the indoor heating used to keep warm in our homes are also a factor contributing to drying you more. It is important to have a nourishing and hydrating winter body care routine to moisturize your skin efficiently
- Pressure– Applied pressure on calluses will cause the skin to split. Pressure is applied on your heel area when you walk barefoot, wearing sandals all the time, standing on your feet for long periods especially on hard floors. Being obese while also doing these things will apply intense pressure on your feet and cause them to split.
- Medical Conditions- Cracked feet can be caused by underlying medical conditions i.e diabetes. Consult a doctor if you suspect that the issue is internal
- Eczema and Psoriasis– These skin conditions may also make one prone to a cracked heel.
- Long Hot Showers– Bathing with hot water dries out our skin more and may be the cause of your dry feet. Try shower with warm water instead of hot water.
Cracked Heels Remedies At Home
Mild cases of cracked heels can be treated at home. You can heal cracked heels at home using these methods;
- Soak your feet in warm soapy water for a few minutes.
- Scrub using a pumice stone to remove dead skin cells
- Grab a body scrub and gently scrub the upper parts of your feet and legs
- Dry your feet properly- make sure you get in between your toes.
- Apply a moisturizer. Use it twice a day for the best results.
- Put on a pair of socks at night
Ingredients that help with Cracked Heels
Urea
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Urea also acts as an exfoliator and removes dead skin cells. Your urea cream for feet should have a concentration of about 10% – 40% depending on the severity of your condition.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids
AHAs offer gentle exfoliation and improve skin texture. Choose a heel balm or cream that contains AHAs like, Lactic acid to smoothen lines on your heel area
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid may help with cracked heels by softening tough, thick skin and a skin exfoliant. Salicylic is mostly mixed with Urea in the top best cream for cracked heels.
Saccharide Isomerate
A moisturizing ingredient that will heal your heels. It is not easily washed off and results in long lasting hydration
Shea butter
Shea butter offer deep moisturization and is aided by the vitamins and fatty acids contained in it. Shea butter will definitely hydrate and smoothen those nasty cracks.
Coconut Oil
It offers deep hydration and will soften the tough dry skin. Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties which will help protect against infections that may occur from the open crack. Also known for its anti-inflammatory properties which will help in healing the cracked heels.
Glycerin
It provides intense hydration which will prevent dryness and smoothen the heel area. Glycerin is the best since it is non-irritating and gentle hence can be used by sensitive skin people. Remember to dilute your glycerin when using it directly on the skin. You can dilute it with; petroleum jelly, rose water.
Best Cream for Cracked Heels
Ebanel Urea Cream
This cream removes calluses and leaves skin feeling smooth and hydrated. The 2% salicylic acid helps in gently exfoliating the heel by removing dead skin cells to promote cellular turnover.
Infused with tea tree oil, coconut oil, green tea and aloe to soothe irritated skin and promote the healing process
Dr. Scholl’s Ultra Hydrating Foot Cream
Contains lactic acid which will exfoliate the dead skin cells and leave you with a smooth skin.
Also infused with lanolin which will create a barrier to seal in moisture
Amlactin Foot Repair Cream
Contains 15% lactic acid which will gently exfoliate and smoothen tough dry skin
O’Keeffe’s for Healthy Feet Night Treatment Foot Cream
is a calming yet intense, restorative foot cream that is to relieve extremely dry, cracked feet while you sleep.
Flexitol Heel Magic
A moisturizer and exfoliator which is clinically proven to soften and repair rough, dry, and cracked feet.
Conclusion
Having cracked heels can cause discomfort and pain especially when the cracks are deep. Aside for that, it is an unsightly condition. Pick a heel balm with the recommended ingredients and let it work its miracle. Don’t forget to regularly exfoliate your skin and seal in moisture with a good heel balm. Your feet should be well taken care of like the rest of the body. Have a body care routine that will also nourish and protect your heel area. Say goodbye to cracked heels by incorporating the advice given above in your skincare routine.
Follow us on Pinterest and share this blog among your community.
