Our feet are constantly under pressure and responsible for withstanding our body and its weight, causing the skin of our heels to expand outwards. If the skin happens to be dry, it can become less elastic and rigid, and more prone to cracks and fissures.

According to the 2012 National Foot Health Assessment (Institute for preventive foot health, 2012), about 20% of adults in the US experience cracked feet, a phenomenon that seems to occur in Children, men, and women, although, particularly in the latter group.

Recent research has also determined that certain vitamin deficiencies can also lead to cracks in the feet, especially vitamins E, B-3, and C, as they can cause your skin to dry up faster or lead to dehydration (Healthline, 2022).

So how do you treat cracks and fissures in your heels?

1. Moisturize Heel balms contain ingredients that moisturize, soften, and exfoliate dead skin and can speed up your rate of recovery.

2. Soak and Exfoliate Since the skin around your cracked heels is often thicker and drier than the rest of your skin, it tends to split when pressure is applied which is why you should moisturize your feet in lukewarm water, carefully removing dead skin. Applying petroleum jelly can also help in the moisturizing process: you can coat the affected area before bed and wear socks to lock up moisture overnight while avoiding grease on your bedsheets. Remember to always avoid scrubbing your feet when they’re dry as it increases the risk of damaged skin.

3. Proper Footwear. Always avoid open-heeled shoes, such as flip flops or sandals, worn-down shoes, or shoes that don’t fit properly.

4. Orthotics or insoles Orthotics and footwear advice from licensed professionals can also be of assistance if cracked heels are caused by biomechanical issues.

5. Limit Long Showers Bathing for too long can cause your skin to dry out, so avoid doing so for more than 5 to 10 minutes and always remember to gently pat your soles dry to prevent further damage.

If left untreated, cracked heels can spread and worsen, sometimes even leading to fungal infections or nail discoloration. If your case is severe or does not improve, it is always best to seek out the help and consultation of a medical professional to prevent serious complications.

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References:

American Academy of Dermatology Association . (2022, 1 31). HOW TO CARE FOR DRY, CRACKED HEELS.

Healthline. (2022). Can Cracked Heels Be Caused by a Vitamin Deficiency?

Healthline. (2022). How to Fix Cracked Heels at Home.

Mayo Clinic. (2022). How to heal cracked heels.

Mayo Clinic. (2022). Mayo Clinic Q and A: Take steps at home to manage dry, cracked heels.