How To Repair Dry Cracked Heels

If you are suffering from painful, dry, cracked heels, you are not alone. Heel fissures are a common issue, especially during the dry winter months or sandal season. Fortunately, with the right care and professional treatments, you can restore your feet to a smooth, healthy state.

1. Professional Pedicure Treatments

The safest and most effective way to begin repairing cracked heels is with a professional treatment. At Tips To Toes in Bethesda, MD, our Cracked Heel Treatment focuses on safely reducing thick calluses. Attempting to cut or aggressively file severe calluses at home can lead to injury and infection. Our technicians use single-use, sterilized tools to gently exfoliate dead skin.

2. Deep Hydration

Moisture is the key to repairing and preventing cracks. After professional exfoliation, it is crucial to apply a thick, emollient moisturizer. Look for creams containing urea, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids, which help to gently exfoliate dead skin cells while drawing moisture into the skin. Apply the cream immediately after showering to lock in moisture.

3. The "Sock Therapy" Method

For an intensive at-home treatment, apply a generous layer of heavy foot cream or a healing ointment (like petroleum jelly) to your heels right before bed. Put on a pair of clean, 100% cotton socks and leave them on overnight. The socks help to trap the moisture and allow the cream to penetrate deeply into the fissures while you sleep.

4. Gentle At-Home Exfoliation

Between professional pedicures, you can maintain your heels with gentle exfoliation. Use a pumice stone lightly on wet skin during your shower. Never use a pumice stone on dry skin, and avoid aggressive scraping, which can cause the skin to react by building back even thicker calluses.

5. Wear Supportive Footwear

Since open-backed shoes allow the heel pad to expand and crack, wearing shoes with a closed heel cup can help support the foot and prevent fissures. If you must wear sandals, ensure you are diligent with your moisturizing routine.

Don't let cracked heels cause you discomfort. Book a Medical-Inspired Pedicure with us today and take the first step toward healthier, happier feet.

Tips to Toes Editorial