Although we live in Florida, we aren’t exactly out of the woods yet when it comes to dry, wintertime weather. During the winter months, yes, even in the Sunshine State, humidity levels are lower, homes are being heated, and your epidermis (the outermost layer of your skin) tends to dry out to match the level of the surrounding heat and low moisture. The result? Your skin, including the areas surrounding your feet and heels, can become dehydrated and cracked.
Most of the time, having cracked heels is not a serious condition. However, over time, if not treated, cracked heels can become extremely painful and in some cases, cracks (fissures) in the feet can allow bacteria to breed. This can cause an infection and make it difficult to walk. To address cracked heels before they become problematic, you should consider adopting a simple at-home routine.
Five Easy Steps to Hydrate and Heal Your Heels
Gently Wash and Dry Your Feet
It’s important to always keep your feet clean, regardless of whether they are dry and cracked or not. Daily washing with a mild soap and lukewarm water will aid in keeping feet healthy and infections away. Avoid using hot water since this can strip natural oils, leaving your skin even more dry. After washing, be sure to pat your feet dry with a clean, soft towel, making sure to dry between the toes to avoid fungal infections.
Soak & Exfoliate Your Feet
Once a day, preferably at night, you should soak your feet in soapy, lukewarm water. You can also add vinegar to your foot bath as an added benefit to serve as a natural antibacterial agent. After soaking for at least 20 minutes, you can use a gentle loofah, pumice stone, or brush to lightly exfoliate any thick, hard skin. Be sure to avoid any open wounds. Always gently dry your feet off after soaking.
Protect Deep Cracks
After washing and soaking your feet, you may want to place a thin layer of liquid bandage to cracked areas. This can help form a protective barrier over the cracks and prevent infections. It also can help minimize further irritation and allow the skin to heal more effectively. Additionally, the coating of the liquid bandage can serve as a cushion to the cracked areas, which will aid in the reduction of discomfort while walking or standing. Reapply as needed.
Hydrate & Seal in Moisture
This is one of the most important steps. After feet have been washed, soaked, dried, and deep cracks have been closed, you will need to focus on rehydrating your feet. Use a thick moisturizer or ointment and spread on your feet generously. Excellent options for moisturizers include coconut oil, cream with urea, shea butter, honey, petroleum jelly, and vitamin e salve. Consider wearing lightweight cotton socks after you apply moisturizer to lock in hydration and keep feet soft and silky. Avoid walking barefoot or in improper footwear as the lack of support and protection can put extra pressure on your heels and exacerbate dryness.
See a Dermatologist
If you practice the above routine daily and still have dry and painful cracked heels, it may be time to seek the help of a licensed professional. A board-certified dermatologist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan for your heels and can also work with you to rule out other pesky skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis that may be causing your issues. By visiting your dermatologist at least once a year, he/she will be able to give you a comprehensive exam and determine any underlying health concerns you may have.
Cracked heels can easily be managed by following the simple steps above. If you have any concerns or questions, our team at Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers is here to help you feel better in the skin you are in. Let us help you today!
About Us
FLDSCC’s team of providers are experts in diagnosing and treating skin cancers; skin conditions and diseases such as eczema, rosacea, dry skin, rashes, and warts; and chronic skin diseases and infections, while simultaneously tackling aging skin, wound care, and a multitude of other skin, hair, and nail concerns.
Several FLDSCC providers are fellowship-trained in Mohs micrographic surgery, an effective state-of-the-art treatment for most types of skin cancers. Mohs surgery involves minimal discomfort and encourages the greatest preservation of healthy tissue, which means less risk of scarring and superior cosmetic results.
FLDSCC has many convenient locations throughout the state. For more information, visit www.fldscc.com, or call (855) FLD-SKIN.
