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How to Heal Cracked Heels
Cracked heels, also known as fissures, can be a nuisance but can occasionally lead to more serious problems if left untreated.
What causes cracked heels?
When the skin around the heel becomes dry, it loses its suppleness and elasticity, and often begins to split. Cracks typically occur in conjunction with calluses, which are a build-up of dead skin. Thick calluses can produce deep and painful cracks, and is often the result of excessive force and pressure through the heels. This can be caused by:
- Being on your feet for long periods
- Wearing hard, unsupportive footwear like thongs and open-backed sandals, or bare feet
- Biomechanical factors that result in more pressure on the heels
- Taking hot, prolonged showers
- Increased weight
- Medical conditions like diabetes
Some medical conditions can lead to cracked heels, as well. These include:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Eczema
- Hypothyroidism, in which your thyroid doesn't make enough of certain hormones
- Juvenile plantar dermatosis, a skin condition in young children
- Sjögren's syndrome, a chronic condition that prevents your body from producing enough moisture
- Athlete's foot, a fungal infection
- Flat feet
- Heel spurs, bone protrusions on the bottom of your heel
How to Treat Cracked Heels at Home
Most cases of cracked heels can be treated at home by soaking your feet, then moisturizing them. You can repair cracked heels using these steps:
- Rest your feet in soapy water for 20 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a loofah or pumice stone to remove the thick, hard skin on your heels.
- Dry your feet thoroughly.
- Apply a heavy moisturizer, such as petroleum jelly, to your dry feet.
- Put on a pair of thick socks to keep the moisturizer in place.
Moisturize your feet at least twice daily. You can buy over-the-counter moisturizers with ingredients that help remove the dead skin on your heels or retain moisture. Look for products with ingredients like:
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