Welcoming warm weather is one of the best things about springtime, but for many people, it’s also accompanied by dealing with cracked heels. Not only are they unsightly, cracked heels can be extremely painful, especially if they split and bleed. If you’re struggling with this common problem, don’t worry – there are a number of home remedies for cracked heels that you can use to take your heels from cracked to soft and supple. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most popular home remedies as well as how to properly treat your feet so you can enjoy wearing open-toed and open-backed shoes all season long!
How To Prevent Heels From Cracking:
1. Moisturize Daily
One of the most important things you can do to prevent and treat cracked heels is to moisturize daily. This will help to keep your skin soft and supple, making it less susceptible to cracking. Choose a thick, heavy-duty moisturizer and apply it liberally all over your feet, especially on the heels. For an extra boost of hydration, you can apply a layer of petroleum jelly or coconut oil before bed and put on a pair of socks to lock in the moisture overnight.
2. Avoid Hot Water as Much as Possible
Hot water can actually make cracked heels worse, so it’s important to avoid soaking your feet in hot water for long periods of time. If you do need to use hot water, make sure to only do it for a short time and then immediately follow up with a moisturizing cream or lotion. You should also Avoid Hot Water when washing your feet altogether, opting for lukewarm water instead. Doing this will help keep your skin from drying out and cracking even further.
3. Wear Closed-Back Shoes
One of the best things you can do to prevent cracked heels is to wear closed-back shoes. This helps to protect your heels from the elements and keeps them from drying out.
4. Avoid Scented and Harsh Products
One of the first things you can do to treat your cracked heels is to take a closer look at the products you’re using. If you regularly use harsh soaps or scented lotions, these could be contributing to your problem. Opt for gentle, unscented products instead – your skin will thank you! You may also want to consider using a humidifier in your home, especially if you live in a dry climate. This will help keep your skin from becoming too dry, which can contribute to cracked heels.
5. Exfoliate Regularly
Another important step in treating your cracked heels is to exfoliate regularly. This will help remove dead skin cells that can build up and contribute to your problem. You can use a store-bought exfoliating scrub or make your own at home with ingredients like sugar, salt, or coffee grounds. Be sure to exfoliate gently, as you don’t want to further irritate your skin.
Home Remedies for Cracked Heels:
1. Stay Moisturized with Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural emollient, meaning it helps to soften and smooth the skin. It’s also known for its ability to lock in moisture, making it an ideal treatment for dry, cracked heels. To use coconut oil on your heels, simply massage a generous amount into your feet before bed and cover them with socks. In the morning, wash your feet with warm water and soap. You should notice a difference in the softness of your skin after just a few nights!
2. Drink Lots of Water
One of the best things you can do for your overall health is to stay hydrated, and that includes keeping your feet healthy. When your body is properly hydrated, it’s able to better retain moisture, which is essential for soft, supple skin. Drink plenty of water throughout the day – aim for at least eight glasses – and you’ll notice a difference in the health of your skin, including your feet.
3. Vaseline and Lemon Juice
One popular home remedy for cracked heels is to mix Vaseline and lemon juice together and apply it to your feet before bed. The Vaseline will help to moisturize your skin while the lemon juice acts as a natural exfoliant, helping to slough away dead skin cells. Be sure to wash your feet in the morning so they’re not too slippery!
To make this home remedy, simply mix together equal parts Vaseline and lemon juice in a bowl. Apply it to your feet before bedtime and cover with socks. In the morning, wash your feet with warm water and soap. You should notice that your heels are softer and more supple after just a few nights of using this remedy!
4. Honey Scrub
One popular home remedy for cracked heels is a honey scrub. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it helps keep skin hydrated by drawing moisture from the air. It’s also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, making it ideal for treating cracked heels. To make a honey scrub, simply mix together equal parts honey and sugar. Apply the scrub to your heels and massage it in for a few minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. You can use this scrub once or twice a week for best results.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural exfoliant that can help to soften and smooth rough, dry skin. To use it on your feet, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl. Soak a clean cloth in the mixture and then use it to scrub your heels for several minutes. Rinse your feet with warm water and apply a thick moisturizer. Repeat this process daily until you see improvement.
6. Baking Soda
Baking soda is another natural exfoliant that can help to get rid of dead skin cells and soften rough, dry skin. To use it on your feet, mix equal parts baking soda and water in a bowl. Soak a clean cloth in the mixture and then use it to scrub your heels for several minutes. Rinse your feet with warm water and apply a thick moisturizer. Repeat this process daily until you see improvement.
7. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a common household product that can be used to moisturize and protect the skin. To use it on your feet, apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly to your heels and then cover them with a pair of socks. Leave the socks on overnight and in the morning, wash your feet with warm water and soap. Repeat this process nightly until you see improvement.
These are just a few of the many home remedies for cracked heels that you can try. Remember to be patient – it may take several weeks of consistent treatment before you see results. And if your cracked heels are accompanied by other symptoms, such as redness, swelling, or pain, consult a medical professional as you may have a more serious condition that requires treatment.
