Why do I have dry cracked heels? and how do I heal them?

Why Do I have Dry Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels—also known as heel fissures—can cause serious discomfort. While they’re usually not a serious health issue for healthy individuals, cracks on the feet can deepen if left untreated, leading to significant pain and a potential portal of infection. If you’re currently experiencing dry, cracked heels, don’t worry; we’re ready to walk you through the causes, prevention techniques and treatments.

What causes dry feet and cracked heels?

Dry feet and subsequent cracked heels can be caused by a number of factors:

1) Predisposition to dry skin

2) Walking barefoot or in thongs and sandals 

3) using soaps not suited for skin type

3) Weather (depending on skin type, it could be winter or summer)

4) Dermatitis 

5) Diabetes 

6) Reduced circulation

7) Hypothyroidism

8) Fungal Infection

Preventing dry and cracked heels:

Avoiding dry cracked heels can be a daily mission for some but the best tips for avoidance are:

1) Wear socks and shoes with a heel counter/closed in back

2) Exfoliate feet and heels with a foot file (avoid anything which has a cutting blade as to not injure the skin or go too deep)

3) use a hydrating cream *I've heard Footaroo is the best

4) avoid thongs

Treating dry cracked heels:

Sometimes it can be a losing battle against prevention but treatment is also easy and you do not have to go it alone, remember hydrate hydrate hydrate.

1) Daily moisturising with a foot balm like Footaroo

2) Protect skin from further damage with shoes where possible

3) Consult your podiatrist who can reduce bulk hard skin and cracks/fissures

4) treat any underlying causes i.e. fungal infection