Dry, cracked feet can be minor, having only an unappealing cosmetic effect. Or, dry, cracked feet can be severe, causing pain. Severely dry feet can have deep painful cracks that expose tender raw skin. When the cracks are deep enough, bleeding results, and the open skin is prone to infection. Some people are more prone to dry, cracked feet than others. Numerous factors cause this symptom, including dry skin, wearing open shoes, being overweight, standing for long periods of time, fungal infections, thyroid conditions and diabetes. Home treatment effectively treats most cases of dry, cracked feet. When home treatment does not work, treatment with a podiatrist should be sought. Because diabetics are prone to serious infections in the feet, they should always consult with a physician before beginning home treatment.
Moisturize
Dry, cracked feet need a lot of moisture. Moisturize the feet twice a day with an oil-based foot cream, shea butter or cocoa butter. Oil in creams hydrate the skin and form a protective barrier on the surface of the skin to lock in moisture.
Soak
Foot soaks soften the skin on the feet, which makes hard skin removal easier. Soak dry, cracked feet in warm water for 15 minutes, once a week to soften hardened skin. Add a few drops of tea tree oil or 1 cup of Epsom salt to the foot bath water to help combat a possible fungal infection.
Remove Dry Hard Skin
Removing hard skin exposes the soft, healthy skin that lies underneath, which reduces pain and allows for better moisturizer absorption. After a foot soak, feet should be scrubbed with a pumice stone to remove hard, scaly skin. Follow the foot scrub with an application of moisturizer.
Protect the Feet
Keeping the feet covered helps to the skin to hold in moisture. Before going to bed, apply foot moisturizer and put on a pair of cotton socks. Some people apply petroleum jelly to the feet instead of a moisturizer. Wear socks and full-coverage, proper-fitting shoes during the day. Many people find sneakers and loafers to be comfortable.
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