No more cracked heels
There might be occasions where we chose shoes over sandals just to cover those cracked heels. The basic reason for cracked heels is dryness and the fat pad’s pressure, causing the skin to split. Other reasons may include over-weight issues, open footwear, cold and dry skin.
So, how can we treat cracked heels at home using basic kitchen remedies?
Tips for treating cracked heels:
- Be hydrated: Try drinking enough water to prevent your skin from getting dry due to dehydration.
- Apply moisturizer: Apply moisturizer twice daily to heal the cracks. The moisturizer helps in keeping your skin hydrated and prevents breakouts.
- Seal your moisturizer with petroleum jelly: Adding a thin layer of petroleum jelly on top of the moisturizer will seal your moisturizer and get absorbed by your feet, keeping them soft.
- Exfoliate: Use a pumice stone or loofah to exfoliate. After soaking your feet in warm water, try scrubbing the feet, which removes the dead skin or thick skin. Then later apply moisturizer.
- Don’t pick the skin: Never pick the dead skin on cracked heels. It not only hurts but may lead to infections.
- Try wearing closed-back shoes: As footwear with an open back causes cracked heels, it is suggested to opt for closed-back shoes which protect your skin from getting exposed to dust.
Best home remedies for cracked heels:
Shea butter/Cocoa butter: The nourishing factors in shea butter and cocoa butter helps in healing cracks. They can be applied and left overnight for better results.
Bananas: The banana pulp helps in smoothening the skin, preventing the heal cracks. Mash a banana and apply the pulp as a layer and leave it for 10mins. later rinse off with lukewarm water.
Castor oil: Castor oil is considered a natural moisturizer and contains healthy omega fats. So, try applying this as a layer and wear socks overnight. Wake up to soft and smooth heels.
Honey: Due to its antibacterial properties, it helps in healing the cracks. Honey can be used as a scrub after a water soak or can be used as a mask overnight.
Coconut oil: Because of the rich anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil, it is also used in treating eczema, dry skin, and psoriasis too. Coconut oil can be used after a foot soak for better results.
Paraffin wax: Paraffin wax is considered to treat chronic heel cracks too. It removes the dead skin and softens the skin. Try applying a layer of wax under your feet and wrap it with a plastic cover. Now let it harden and remove the cover. This will leave your skin pampered and smooth.
**Note: If the heal cracks are dense, painful, and infected, then one should consult a doctor for treating them further.