Overview
Cracked heels are cosmetically unappealing and, in severe cases, pose health risks. Severely cracked heels develop deep fissures that bleed, are painful and at risk for infection. The cause of cracked heels is dry skin. A common cause of dry skin on the feet is wearing open-heeled shoes in dry weather conditions. It is possible for any person to develop dry, cracked heels, but diabetics and overweight people are more susceptible. Get rid of cracked heels, and keep them away with daily, home pedicures.
Step 1
Wash your feet with soap and warm water. While washing, take the time to inspect your feet for signs of cellulitis (infection) or fissures (deep, painful cracks). Signs of infection include areas of redness, swelling and open sores. Visit your podiatrist if you spot signs of infection or deep fissures.
Step 2
Rub a pumice stone gently over your heels–while your feet are still wet–to remove dry, dead skin. To avoid tearing the skin on your feet, rub the pumice stone in one direction only.
Step 3
Pat your feet dry with a clean towel.
Step 4
Smooth petroleum jelly or foot cream over the tops and bottoms of your feet, avoiding the areas in between your toes and concentrating on your cracked heals. Cream between your toes increases the chance of infection, warns the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP), because the moisture combined with the warm environment between the toes provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungus to grow.
Step 5
Put on a pair of clean, cotton socks to hold the moisture in the skin of your feet.
