Introduction
Cracked heels can be painful and unattractive, making it difficult to wear sandals and certain types of shoes. They occur when the skin on the heels dries out and thickens, causing it to crack. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as standing for long periods, wearing improper footwear, and living in a dry climate. Fortunately, there are several approaches you can take to fix cracked heels permanently. Here are the top six methods you need to know.
Exfoliate and Moisturize Daily
One of the best ways to prevent and treat cracked heels is through daily exfoliation and moisturizing. This helps remove dead skin cells and keeps the skin on your heels soft and supple.
To exfoliate your feet, choose a gentle scrub that contains natural exfoliants like sugar or pumice. Avoid using products with harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin. Apply the scrub to your feet and gently rub in a circular motion for several minutes. Rinse off with warm water and pat your feet dry.
Next, apply a thick moisturizer to your feet, paying extra attention to the heels. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or urea, which help soothe and hydrate dry skin. Apply the moisturizer twice a day, preferably after showering and before bed.
Use Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is another effective remedy for treating cracked heels. It helps lock in moisture and softens the skin, making it more pliable and less likely to crack.
To use petroleum jelly, first clean and dry your feet. Then, apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly to your heels, covering the cracks completely. Put on a pair of socks and leave the petroleum jelly on overnight. The next morning, rinse your feet with warm water and pat them dry.
For best results, use petroleum jelly every night until your heels are healed.
Try a Foot Soak
A foot soak can help soften the skin and make it easier to remove dead skin cells. Epsom salt is a common ingredient in foot soaks because it helps reduce inflammation and ease muscle aches.
To make a foot soak, fill a basin with warm water and add a cup of Epsom salt. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes, then gently pat them dry with a towel. Apply moisturizer afterwards to help lock in the moisture.
For best results, do a foot soak once or twice a week.
Wear Proper Shoes
Wearing improper shoes is a common cause of cracked heels. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause friction and pressure on the heels, which can lead to thicker skin and eventually cracking.
To avoid this, choose shoes that fit properly and provide good support for your feet. Look for shoes with a wide and deep toe box that can accommodate your toes comfortably. Avoid shoes with high heels or narrow toe boxes that can cramp your toes and cause your heels to take on more weight. Additionally, take good care of your shoes by cleaning and conditioning them regularly to prevent cracking and stiffness.
Use a Heel Balm
Heel balms are specially formulated to moisturize and protect the skin on your heels. They contain ingredients like urea and lactic acid that help lock in moisture and exfoliate dead skin cells.
When choosing a heel balm, look for products that contain at least 10% urea or 5% lactic acid. Apply the heel balm twice a day, preferably after showering and before bed. Massage the balm into your heels and cover them with a pair of socks to help the balm absorb into the skin.
Apply a Foot Mask
A foot mask can help soothe and hydrate dry, cracked skin on your feet. There are several DIY foot mask recipes that you can make at home using natural ingredients like honey, oatmeal, and avocado.
To make a basic foot mask, mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Apply the mixture to your feet and massage it in for several minutes. Rinse off with warm water and pat your feet dry. Apply moisturizer afterwards to help lock in the moisture.
Foot masks are gentle enough to use once or twice a week, but you can use them more frequently if your heels are severely cracked.
Conclusion
Cracked heels are a common problem, but they can be fixed permanently with proper care and attention. Remember to exfoliate and moisturize daily, use petroleum jelly, try a foot soak, wear proper shoes, use a heel balm, and apply a foot mask. With a little bit of patience and persistence, you can enjoy smooth, healthy, crack-free feet.
Additional tips include drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, avoiding harsh soaps and chemicals that can dry out your skin, and seeking medical attention if your heels are severely cracked or infected.
