Why do I have Dry Cracked Heels ?
Dry, cracked heels are a common foot problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Dehydration: When your body is dehydrated, it can cause your skin to become dry and cracked. This can be exacerbated if you are not drinking enough water, or if you live in a dry climate.
Lack of moisture: If your feet are not getting enough moisture, it can lead to dry, cracked skin. This can be caused by factors such as cold weather, hot showers, and wearing open-back shoes that expose the heels to the air.
Prolonged standing or walking: If you spend a lot of time standing or walking, it can put pressure on your heels and cause them to crack.
Excessive weight: Being overweight can put extra pressure on your feet, which can lead to cracks in the heels.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism, can cause dry, cracked skin on the feet.
Aging: As you age, your skin loses its natural moisture and becomes thinner, which can make it more prone to cracking.
How do I treat my dry cracked heels?
Dry, cracked heels can be treated at home with a few simple steps:
Soak your feet: Soaking your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes can help soften the skin and make it easier to remove dead skin cells. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil, to the water for added moisture.
Exfoliate: After soaking your feet, use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove dead skin cells from the heels. Be careful not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing can cause more damage to the skin. Use extra caution or do not perform this exfoliating step if you have open wounds, diabetic, or suffer from severe vascular disease.
Moisturize: Apply a thick moisturizer or foot cream to your heels and the rest of your feet, focusing on the areas where the skin is dry and cracked. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients such as urea, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids, which can help to exfoliate and hydrate the skin.
Wear socks: After applying moisturizer, put on a pair of socks to help lock in the moisture and prevent further drying.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized.
In addition to these home remedies, there are also medical treatments that may be recommended for severe cases of dry, cracked heels. These may include prescription-strength creams or ointments, oral medications, or specialized foot treatments such as laser therapy or foot baths. If your heels are severely cracked or painful, it is important to make an appointment at PS Foot & Ankle for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.