Dry, cracking heels are not only unpleasant to look at, but they can be quite painful, as well. Cracked skin anywhere else on the body can be annoying, and when it's on your feet, it can be downright problematic, as it makes it difficult to walk or even stand in one place. Not to be taken lightly, this is an issue that demands prompt attention. With the help of a few things you may already have around the house, you can heal your dry skin and painful cracks.
Step 1
Exfoliate layers of dead skin from your heels with the help of a pumice stone after a bath or shower when your skin is still soft from the moisture. Dampen the pumice stone, and gently rub it over areas of thick dry skin to remove dead skin cells. Do not use the pumice stone if you have any open sores or blisters.
Step 2
Wash your feet with warm water to keep them clean and prevent infections, especially if your skin is cracking. Warm water is better for your skin, as hot water will dry out your skin faster. Use a mild soap or an antibacterial soap to keep bacteria from getting into cracks in the skin. Make sure that the soap you use is gentle and free of fragrances and harsh chemicals. Gently pat your feet dry with a soft, dry towel to avoid irritating them.
Step 3
Mash up two bananas, and apply the pulp to each heel. Leave the banana on your feet for at least 10 minutes before wiping it away with a clean, damp cloth to help restore moisture. Do this a couple of times a week.
Step 4
Moisturize your feet often with an oil-based lotion. Make sure to apply the lotion after you bathe, before you go to bed and several other times throughout the day to help replenish moisture.
Step 5
Soak your feet each night before you go to bed in a solution of equal parts mineral oil and warm water for 10 minutes. Massage the remaining moisture on your feet into your skin with your hands when you take your feet out of the solution. Pat your feet gently dry with a soft towel.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Dehydration can worsen dry skin.
- If nothing seems to help your dry, cracking heels or you experience redness, swelling or other signs of infection, talk to your doctor about possible causes and treatments that will work best for you.
Things You'll Need
- Pumice stone
- Moisturizing soap
- Soft towel
- Bananas
- Oil-based lotion
- Mineral oil
Member Comments
SoleMates August 13
Moisture retention, rather then moisturizing is the permanent solution to dry skin and cracked heels. Nitrile coated socks, SoleMates are the only product on the market to offer this advantage. They work, I should know, I've been wearing them for five years and my feet are as consistently soft as a baby's bottom.