10 Tips to Prevent Cracked Heels
A lot of factors are responsible for cracked heels. Cracked heels are common among people who walk a lot or who have a field job. Everyone including a housewife and a working woman can get cracked heels. Medically known as foot fissures, cracked heels are usually not painful. Cracks can be painful if the fissures are deeper and if they get exposed to water or chemicals on a regular basis. You may have flaky patches, cracked skin, itchy cuts and sometimes blood on the heels. Cold winter days, dirt and dust on exposed feet, no proper care of the feet, heat coming from indoor heating systems, too much scrubbing, Omega 3 or zinc deficiency, extremely dry skin, lack of moisture on the feet and hot baths are some other reasons for cracked heels. Some women wear shoes that are too tight. This can also cause cracks on the heels. If your heels are cracked because of any of these reasons then check out the following ideas on how to prevent cracked heels.
1. Pick shoes of the right size
It is important to buy shoes that fit your feet properly. Wearing small sized shoes will not only be very painful but it will also be bad for the skin of your feet. Likewise, wearing shoes that are too big or loose is also a bad idea. This will give your feet more space to move around, causing friction. Too much friction can form dry calluses around the heels which will cause cracks on them. So, always try to wear shoes that are neither too tight nor loose.
2. Exfoliate your feet
It is important to exfoliate your feet twice or thrice a week, to keep the skin surrounding the heels free of dryness. Exfoliate your feet by soaking it into lukewarm water for a few minutes. This will make the skin covering your feet softer. You can use a pumice stone to gently rub the heels in circular motion. Afterwards, you can use a clean cloth to dry your feet. This will allow the dead skin to come out very easily. Pat your feet dry and apply a good cream on it in the end.
3. Keep your feet well moisturized
You can keep your feet soft and healthy by keeping them well moisturized. Use a good foot cream, olive oil and even petroleum jelly to keep your feet moisturized. Go for a lotion that contains urea. Such a lotion will increase the ability of your heels’ skin to hold the moisture within. It is important to use a rich moisturizing cream in case you have dry skin. Don’t apply the moisturizer or cream between the toes. Make sure you put on your socks once you have applied the moisturizer.
4. Keep your heels hydrated
Keep the hydration level of your heels well maintained. This will help you to prevent the heels from cracking. Don’t take hot water showers or baths because this will cause dryness. Avoid hot water baths especially if you are suffering from diabetics or impaired blood circulation. Lukewarm water is a better option for the feet. If you must take a hot water bath often, make sure you put your feet in cold water for a few minutes later on.
5. Stay hydrated
It is important to stay hydrated. It is actually essential for everyone to drink about eight glasses of water every single day. You can have 6 glasses of water in a day and have other fluids along if you can’t drink too much water. Go for fresh orange juice, flavored water and healthy smoothies. This will keep your skin well hydrated from inside.
