Cracked heels can be uncomfortable with their rough, dry and sometimes painful cracks. But don’t worry; you don’t have to spend a lot of money on pedicures or fancy creams to make your heels soft again.
Here’s how to cure cracked heels at home using readily available ingredients and simple procedures:
Soaking and peeling:
Warm Up: Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of an essential oil such as lavender or tea tree for a relaxing touch. To soften dry skin, soak your feet for ten to fifteen minutes.
Gentle Scrub: Use a pumice stone, foot file, or gentle sugar scrub to remove dead skin. Be gentle to avoid further irritation.
Dry thoroughly: Dry your feet with a soft towel, paying special attention to the areas between the toes.
Deeply hydrates:
Moisturize: Apply a thick moisturizer or foot cream rich in emollients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, or lactic acid. Massage it into your feet until it is completely absorbed.
Seal the deal: Lock in moisture with a layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor. Put on socks, preferably cotton ones, to lock in the moisture and let it work overnight.
Repetition is the key:
Consistency is essential to repair cracked heels. Focus on soaking and moisturizing daily, especially before bed. As your heels improve, you can reduce the frequency to a few times a week.
Bonus Tips:
Peeling with natural ingredients: Mash a ripe banana and apply it to your heels for 10-15 minutes before washing off. Honey is another natural exfoliator with additional antibacterial properties.
Wear open-toe shoes: Give your feet room to breathe to prevent moisture build-up and chafing.
Find the underlying cause: Dry skin, vitamin deficiencies and certain medical conditions can contribute to cracked heels. Consult a doctor if your heels do not improve with home treatment or if you experience severe pain or bleeding.
Prevention is better than cure:
Moisturize regularly: Don’t wait for cracks to appear. Apply moisturizer daily to keep your feet soft and supple.
Weekly Peel: A light weekly peel removes dead skin and prevents skin build-up.
Wear supportive shoes: Avoid wearing ill-fitting shoes that rub against your heels.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin, including your feet, hydrated from the inside out.
With a little TLC and these simple tips, you can say goodbye to cracked heels and hello to smooth, happy feet!
Remember, consistency is critical. So put on your favorite socks, grab your moisturizer and get ready to pamper these precious babies!