Cracked heels are a very common problem, and in most cases, they are caused by dry skin. When the skin becomes dry, it loses elasticity, making it more likely to split under pressure. The good news is that with the right care, cracked heels can usually be treated and prevented.
To heal existing cracks – and stop new ones from forming – the key is to re-hydrate the skin. There are two simple ways to do this.
1. Change What You Wash With
Many everyday washing products – including soap, shower gel and shampoo – contain detergents that foam. These can strip moisture from the skin and increase the skin’s pH, which is normally slightly acidic. This leads to dryness.
Switching to an emollient soap substitute can make a big difference. These products cleanse the skin without drying it out and are widely available from pharmacies. Popular options include:
- Aqueous Cream
- Hydromol Ointment
- E45 Shower Cream
- Eucerin Shower Oil
Using an emollient wash regularly helps protect your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
2. Apply Emollients Daily
The skin on our feet is different from the rest of the body – it contains no oil glands and relies solely on sweat for moisture. If you’re not producing enough sweat, the skin becomes dry and prone to cracking.
This is why feet need something stronger than standard body lotion. Look for foot creams or heel balms containing a high concentration of urea or glycerine, as these ingredients draw and retain moisture in the skin.
Applying your foot cream straight after bathing is ideal, as it helps lock in moisture.
When Dryness Isn’t the Cause
Although dryness is the most common reason for cracked heels, it’s not the only one. Cracks can also be caused by:
- Fungal infections
- Skin conditions, such as psoriasis
- Persistent friction from ill-fitting footwear
If friction is the issue, switching to shoes with secure fastenings – such as lace-ups or Velcro straps – can help. Avoid loose slip-on shoes and slippers, which can rub and worsen the problem.
Skin conditions or infections often cause the heels to look red, inflamed or “unhappy”. These problems require different treatments, so it’s important to have them properly assessed.
Not Sure What’s Causing Your Cracked Heels?
A podiatrist can help determine the cause of your heel cracking. At Randell’s Footcare, we can:
- Examine the skin for visible clues
- Carry out tests, including sending skin samples to the lab if needed
- Recommend the most effective treatment to get your heels comfortable again
Get Help Today
If you suffer from cracked heels, aren’t sure what’s causing them, or want help getting them properly treated, we’re here for you.
Contact us today to arrange an appointment with one of our HCPC-registered podiatrists.
