Also known as fissures, cracks in the skin of the feet appear most commonly when the skin is overly dry (xerosis). These cracks, often seen on the heel of the foot and in between the toes, can cause much discomfort. If the cracks are deep enough, infection can set in. The Foot and Ankle Center explains that certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and underactive thyroid, can lead to cracked feet. Psoriasis and eczema are also likely causes of foot fissures. Fixing cracked feet requires lifestyle changes and a care plan that involves rehydrating the skin.
Step 1
Soak your cracked feet in a basin of warm water for at least 20 minutes. Penn State Milton Hershey Medical Center recommends soaking at night, before you go to bed.
Step 2
Apply a thick, oil-based moisturizer to your cracked feet immediately after soaking. Smear the moisturizer onto your feet and into the cracks liberally.
Step 3
Slip on a pair of thick, cotton socks after moisturizing. The cotton socks will keep the moisturizer close to your skin and also prevent the moisturizer from rubbing off on your bed linens.
Step 4
Slough-off thick, calloused skin in the shower or bath, in between soaks. Use a pumice stone to remove the calloused skin; rubbing the stone back and forth to remove the dry skin cells.
Step 5
Repeat the process at least four times per week. If you do not see marked improvement within two weeks, consult your physician.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply the moisturizer to your cracked feet after each shower or bath.
- If your cracked feet show signs of discoloration, bleeding, redness or swelling, see your doctor immediately. This can be a sign of infection at the site of the cracking.
Things You'll Need
- Thick, oil-based moisturizer
- Thick, cotton socks
- Pumice stone
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