Cracked heels: causes, prevention, and care

Heel fissures are small tears or cracks in the skin of the heels. These can start small, but sometimes become deeper and cause pain when walking or standing. Heel fissures usually develop when the skin of the feet becomes extremely dry or is not adequately cared for.

With proper foot care, you can often prevent cracked heels and keep the skin on your feet supple and healthy.

What causes cracked heels?

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of cracked heels:

Dry skin

When the skin on the heels lacks sufficient moisture, it becomes dry and less elastic. As a result, the skin can crack more easily.

Excessive pressure on the heels

Prolonged standing or walking, especially on hard surfaces, can cause extra pressure on the heels. This can cause the skin to expand and eventually tear.

Medical conditions

Some health problems, such as diabetes, eczema, or obesity, can increase the risk of cracked heels because the skin becomes more sensitive or drier.

Incorrect footwear

Shoes that provide insufficient support or fit poorly can increase pressure on the heels. This can promote the formation of calluses and cracks.

Environmental factors

Cold and dry weather can dry out the skin because the skin's natural moisture level decreases.

Skin infections

Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, can cause dry and flaky skin on the soles of the feet and between the toes.

Insufficient foot care

If the feet are not regularly cared for or moisturized, the skin can become harder and drier. This increases the risk of cracked heels.

How can you prevent cracked heels?

Good foot care plays an important role in preventing cracked heels. By paying attention to your feet daily, you can prevent many problems.

Take care of your feet daily

Regularly cleaning and moisturizing the feet helps keep the skin supple and healthy.

Wear breathable socks

Cotton or bamboo socks help wick away moisture and keep the skin comfortable.

Choose well-fitting footwear

Shoes that provide sufficient support and cushioning reduce pressure on the heels and help limit callus formation.

Use a moisturizing cream

A nourishing cream with ingredients such as allantoin can help hydrate the skin and support the recovery of dry feet.

Treating cracked heels

When cracked heels are already present, it is important to properly care for and hydrate the skin. A nourishing cream can help soften the skin and support the natural skin barrier.

Ingredients such as aloe vera, evening primrose oil, echinacea, and allantoin are known for their nourishing and moisturizing properties. These ingredients help nourish the skin and can contribute to restoring dry or rough feet.

By regularly caring for the skin, it can gradually become more supple again.

What else can you do for healthy feet?

In addition to hydrating the skin, there are various ways to keep your feet healthy.

Take a foot bath regularly


Take a foot bath regularly
A warm foot bath can help to relax the skin and make it softer.

Gently remove excess callus

Regularly filing the heels helps to reduce excess calluses. Afterwards, it is important to apply a nourishing cream.

Visit a pedicurist

A pedicurist can help with the professional care of the feet and the treatment of calluses or cracks.

Choose the right care

The use of products that hydrate and support the skin can help restore the skin's natural moisture balance.

Conclusion

Cracked heels are often caused by a combination of dry skin, pressure on the heels, and insufficient care. By caring for your feet daily, wearing good shoes, and regularly hydrating the skin, you can significantly reduce the risk of cracks.

With a consistent and gentle care routine, you can work towards soft, supple, and healthy feet.

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