Running errands, chasing the little ones in the backyard, getting through that tough workout class — your feet deserve a little TLC for whatever they do, no matter the season.
But when it’s time to break out your favorite sandals, things get a little more urgent. If you’ve noticed that the skin on your feet isn’t looking or feeling its best lately, stay tuned for special solutions to help fix them. These simple, easy steps will show you how to repair dry cracked heelsand expel the rough skin in time.
First thing on the list? Learn more about the skin on your feet. To begin with, it is up to 50 times thicker than the skin on your face. However, it contains fewer fat cells than other parts of your body, making it more prone to moisture loss and, in turn, dryness. This brings us to another point…
Why do your heels crack?
The heels are very durable all day long, taking a lot of abrasion and pressure (literally). When the skin on your feet starts to dry out, its structure can change, start to tear or even crack. Combined with a natural loss of elasticity over time, painful cracks may begin to appear.
Another factor? The weather. While every season has its challenges, it’s no secret that your heels are often at their worst in winter as the temperatures drop and the air gets crisp. Less moisture in the environment makes the skin drier, so your feet are more likely to peel and crack in the colder months. However, you may also experience these changes after days spent in chlorinated pools or after walking barefoot on rough surfaces.
That’s why daily moisturizing of your feet is the key to their well-being. Regardless of the time of year, if you notice peeling, itching, roughness or redness, it’s time to take action.
How to fix dry, cracked heels
1. Keep your feet as clean as you can
It may seem obvious, but proper foot hygiene plays an important role in their appearance. Especially in summer, when you wear open-toed shoes and high temperatures can make you sweat. Forgetting to clean and dry your feet properly can lead to infections and irritation. Both can cause red, scaly skin to form on the feet and create cracks or blisters.
So what can you do? Wash your feet daily with a gentle, moisturizing cleanser which will not dry out the skin. Try to avoid harsh cleansers that strip your skin of its natural oils. Because to prevent dry, cracked heels, it’s important to keep your skin’s natural moisture barrier intact. And when in doubt, seek expert advice from your dermatologist.
2. Exfoliate your heels after showering
Exfoliation is your greatest ally in removing rough skin and preventing the formation of thick patches on your heels. Keep in mind that there are two types of exfoliation: physical (rubbing and tools) and chemical (acids and other skin care ingredients). Both are important to a proper foot care routine — but in this step, we’re talking physical exfoliation.
Where to start from; Avoid metal files or highly corroded tools as they could worsen the irritation. Instead, choose smooth, natural pumice stones or sponges.
After showering, the outer layer of your skin will be soft, moist and easier to exfoliate. It’s the perfect time to gently give your heels a once over and hand rub any stubborn rough patches.
3. Use an exfoliating moisturizer
Does that sound like a contradiction? Fortunately, it’s not — depending on the concentration, some skincare ingredients can provide more than one benefit. Take urea for example. In low concentrations, it deeply hydrates and softens the skin, while in high concentrations, it provides powerful exfoliation to smooth even the roughest areas. Plus, it can offer the best of both worlds in moderate concentrations.
Our recommendation? Introduce a urea gel-oil foot moisturizer in your body care routine to soften skin and maintain optimal moisture levels. Additional ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, panthenol and shea butter work together to help repair dryness and cracking.
Overall, if you want to keep the skin on your feet soft and smooth year-round, the key is to moisturize daily using a targeted formula. Having trouble keeping up with your new routine? Keep your foot moisturizer right next to your body lotion as a gentle reminder to use both.
What else can you do for your feet?
This quick three-step routine wouldn’t be complete without these final tips—because you can also combat the appearance of dry, cracked heels with other healthy daily habits:
- Wear socks made of natural fabrics, such as wool or cotton. Synthetic fabrics can make your feet sweat and cause further irritation.
- Make sure your shoes fit properly. Some extra breathing room can help prevent excessive friction.
- Can’t wait to break out your new sandals? Try them at home first. There’s nothing more frustrating than blisters or swelling from shoes you’ve been dying to wear. If you notice any discomfort, apply extra moisturizer to the area before you leave the house.
- Protect your feet from the sun. This is one of the easiest places to forget sunscreen, although it shouldn’t be! It is equally important to protect the skin on your feet.
Giving your feet the same attention you give the rest of your body will help them look clean, soft and beautiful. So make the most of your foot care routine and give yourself some time to put your feet up and relax. Because skincare is self-care.
Editorial team
Our namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that stimulate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. By connecting beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.
