Healing cracked heels

Cracked heels are a common problem. The cold air, dehydration and a lack of moisture, taking long hot baths, using harsh, drying soaps on feet or scrubbing feet dry can cause heels to dry out fast and crack. Nowadays, getting a pedicure is not always possible to give our feet the care it needs. So, it only makes sense to start tending to dry and cracked heels at home.

Here are some steps to follow to keep your heels looking and feeling soft and supple, and ready for sandals ––

Soak and exfoliate

One might consider setting some time aside once a week after showering to treat their feet. The main objective of sulking is to soften calloused and dry feet. So, soaking feet in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes will allow for cracked fields to hydrate and make it easier to use pumice stone or foot file. A pumice stone, a-light-yet abrasive stone, is used to remove dry skin and dead skin.

For an extra flair, one could try adding a few drops of their favourite essential oil into the water to soak their feet.

Regular moisturising

Daily moisturising is crucial for healing cracked fields. Doing so, keeps the skin hydrated and soft, preventing damage.

The right footwear

If the heels are constantly cracked despite taking measures, it may be worth reevaluating one's shoe collection. Certain pairs can aggravate the heels, particularly tighter shoes that tend to restrict movement or shoes that have a stiff heel counter (the slightly elevated part on the back of the shoe which might touch the ankle).

Just like skincare routine, it is just as important to invest in foot-care even after the cracks have healed. The best remedy for cracked heels is to prevent it in the first place and this can be done through regular moisturising and weekly exfoliating in both cold and warm weather. In doing so, one will always be ready to put their best foot forward!

Photo: LS Archive/ Sazzad Ibne Sayed