With spring in full-effect, the warmer, drier air causes the skin to become callused and split.
What Causes Cracked Heels?
Dried out and thickened skin cannot stretch or flex under pressure, instead, it will tend to split, most commonly on your heels. Calluses, or thickened patches of dead skin, will also build up, making them prone to cracks as well.
However, there are a variety of reasons you may be experiencing cracked heels, including the following:
- Walking around barefoot or in flip-flops or open-backed sandals
- Genetics
- Standing for a long period of time, especially on hard floors
- Increased weight, which causes increased pressure on the heels causing calluses
- Poor fitting shoes or sandals that don’t support the heels
- Fungal infections and tinea
- Unhealthy, dry scaly skin that can be caused by climate
- Deficiency of vitamins, minerals, zinc, or malnutrition
- Hormonal conditions, such as thyroid or estrogen imbalance
- Circulation issues
How Do I Treat Cracked Feet And Heels?
While heel fissures are common, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate the dryness, making your feet and heels healthy and smooth again.
- Avoid drying soaps. Non-moisturizing soaps strip the natural oils from your skin, leaving your skin dry.
- Moisturize daily. Apply moisturizing lotions to your feet, after you have thoroughly washed them.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Your internal moisture affects your skin, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Treat your calluses. Soak and scrub your heel calluses, which will cause them to soften and thin, making your skin less likely to crack.
- Wear proper shoes. It is important to wear shoes that protect your heels, as well as allow your feet to breathe.
For more information or any questions regarding cracked heels, contact the Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois today.
