Cracked heels, or heel fissures, occur when the dry, thickened skin on the bottom of your heels splits. This common foot problem can range from a cosmetic concern to a painful condition. Deeper cracks can cause discomfort and even bleed.
Understanding the Causes
Dry skin is the main reason for cracked heels, lacking elasticity to withstand foot pressure. When skin loses moisture, it becomes rigid and prone to splitting. Environmental factors like cold, dry weather, low humidity, frequent hot showers, or harsh soaps can worsen this dryness.
Mechanical stress contributes to heel cracking. Standing for extended periods, especially on hard surfaces, puts pressure on the heel’s fat pad. This causes the fat pad to expand sideways, and if the overlying skin is dry, it can crack. Ill-fitting footwear, including open-backed shoes or sandals, further increases stress and friction, making skin prone to fissures.
Certain medical conditions increase susceptibility to cracked heels. These include fungal infections like athlete’s foot, causing dry, flaky skin. Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, or systemic diseases like diabetes and thyroid disorders, can impair skin health. As individuals age, their skin naturally loses elasticity, making them more prone to cracked heels.
Practical Home Remedies and Prevention
Consistent moisturizing is key to treating and preventing cracked heels. Applying thick moisturizers, petroleum jelly, or specialized heel balms regularly hydrates skin, restoring flexibility. For best results, apply after bathing when skin is damp, and wear cotton socks overnight to lock in moisture. Products with urea, glycerin, or ceramides are effective for moisturizing and repairing the skin barrier.
Gentle exfoliation removes buildup of dead, hardened skin that contributes to cracking. A pumice stone or foot file can be used after soaking feet in warm water to soften skin. Use light pressure and avoid aggressive scrubbing, as excessive exfoliation can worsen the condition or cause injury.
Choosing appropriate footwear significantly reduces stress on the heels. Opt for supportive, closed-back shoes with adequate cushioning to distribute pressure evenly. Limiting time spent walking barefoot or wearing open-backed shoes, which offer little support and dry out heels, protects skin. Maintaining good foot hygiene, including daily washing and thorough drying, especially between toes, supports foot health.
Recognizing When to See a Doctor
While many cracked heels can be managed at home, certain signs indicate professional medical attention is necessary. If cracks are deep, cause persistent pain, or bleed, consult a healthcare professional. These symptoms suggest the condition is severe and may require advanced treatment.
Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever, warrant immediate medical evaluation. Infections can arise if bacteria enter deep cracks, posing a health risk. Individuals with underlying medical conditions like diabetes, which affect nerve function and circulation, should seek professional advice for cracked heels, as they may be more susceptible to complications.
If home remedies do not improve the condition after a few weeks, a podiatrist or doctor can offer further treatment. They may recommend stronger topical creams, perform debridement to safely remove dead skin, or address any contributing medical conditions. Professional guidance ensures appropriate care to prevent the condition from worsening.