Most women have skincare regimens they follow regularly. This includes everything from home remedies passed down through generations to tips learned from YouTube videos. While we take good care of our face, we mostly end up forgetting to care for our feet.
The skin of our feet is especially prone to dryness as there are no oil glands present on our heels. This dryness is the reason for cracked heels. Taking care of our feet ensures that they do not ache, are moisturised and smell great as well.
4 Common Causes Of Cracked Heels
- One main reason for cracked heels is the lack of moisturising your feet.
- During the cold weather, there is less humidity which causes the skin to become dry. Dry skin can lead to peeling of the skin and cracking of the heels.
- Certain medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, and eczema can also lead to cracked feet.
- Simple actions like walking barefoot and taking long hot showers are also a reason for dry, cracked heels.
10 Simple Home Remedies For Cracked Heels
1. Foot Soak
One of the most effective home remedies for cracked feet is soaking your feet in warm soapy water for 15-20 minutes and then gently using a foot scrubber or pumice stone to remove the dead skin layer on top of the feet. Gently pat dry your feet and apply either a moisturising cream like shea butter or petroleum jelly to the cracked areas. Creams with added vitamin E are also effective. Once applied, wear thick socks to lock in the moisture in the heels. You could choose to do this at night, and sleep with the socks on.
2. Healing Honey
Honey has natural soothing properties and doing this on a regular basis is a good home remedy for cracked heels very quickly. Soak your feet in 1 whole cup of honey in half a bucket of water for 20 minutes. Scrub off the dry skin gently and pat dry the area.
3. Epsom Salt Soak
Epsom salt is a potent home remedy to soften the heels and help heal the cracks. To do this, soak half a cup of Epsom salt in warm water. Soak your cracked feet in this mixture for up to 15 minutes. You can do it twice a week for soft feet.
4. Banana Mask
One of the simplest home remedies for cracked heels is a banana mask for your feet. All you need is one ripe banana. Mash it well in a bowl. Then apply a generous, thick layer of the mashed bananas all over the dry, cracked feet and leave it in for 20 minutes. Bananas act as a moisturiser on your skin and help smoothen it. Wash it away with warm water and pat dry the area.
5. Coconut Oil Remedy
Many times, cracked heels can become a source of entry for fungal and bacterial infections in the body. Coconut oil is a natural antibacterial and anti-fungal product that contains vitamin E. Apply coconut oil over your feet and slip on a pair of thick socks and go to bed. This will ensure that there are no oil stains and will provide moisture to the cracks throughout the night. This can be done every day until the cracks heal.
6. Aloe Vera Gel Mask
Wash your feet with lukewarm water and wipe it dry with a towel. Cut out a fresh aloe leaf from the plant. Using a knife, peel out the thick outer layer and scoop the gel into a cup. Apply this gel on your cracked heels and wear socks to leave it on overnight. If fresh Aloe Vera is not available, you can use organic store-bought Aloe Vera too. Do this regularly for a week to see great results.
7. Paraffin Wax Treatment
Paraffin wax helps open pores and remove dead skin from the feet. Take some paraffin wax and pour a few drops of coconut oil in a pan. Heat this mixture well until the wax has completely melted. Allow this blend to cool down to room temperature and apply it on your feet. Wrap a hot towel over the wax and let it sit for 30 minutes until it cools. Then remove the hardened layer and pat dry. Skip this home remedy if you’re a diabetic patient or have open sores on your feet.
8. Caffeine Scrub Booster
Mix half a cup of coffee grounds and sugar with a few drops of coconut oil. Apply this mix in a circular motion and let it dry for 10 minutes before rinsing it with warm water. The coffee grounds help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Coffee grounds have become very popular in home remedies for cracked heels.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar Cure
Mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with three to four cups of warm water in a basin and soak your feet completely. After soaking it for 15 minutes, use a foot scrubber and scrub off the dead skin in a gentle manner. Repeat it the next day, if required.
10. Rice Flour/Oats Scrub
Take 2-3 tablespoons of oats flour and mix in a few drops of almond oil. You can substitute oats with rice flour too. Apply this paste to the cracks and gently scrub your feet to remove dead skin. Wipe it with a wet cloth and moisturise it well.
How To Prevent Cracked Heels
The key to preventing cracked heels is making a few lifestyle changes. Here’s a quick list of dos and don’ts for soft, supple skin.
Dos:
- Wear good quality, natural cotton or woolen socks.
- It is a good idea to change your footwear often. Wearing the same footwear daily can allow fungus to grow and give rise to infection
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other liquids.
- Use a scrubber or pumice stone regularly to remove dead skin.
- Moisturise your feet daily with a foot cream.
- Relax your feet by indulging in a foot massage.
Don’ts:
- Avoid wearing shoes or heels without proper support and cushioning for your feet.
- Avoid shoes that are too tight or don’t fit properly.
- Avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of natural oils.
These foot crack remedies are all easily available at home and inexpensive as well. Spending a few minutes daily to take care of your feet will go a long way in helping flaunt your fabulous feet.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does diabetes cause cracked heels?
A. Yes. Uncontrolled sugar levels can cause nerve damage in the feet, leading to calluses and dry skin. If proper and timely care is not taken, it can lead to cracked heels. Further, cracked heels can remain open and may cause bleeding and pain.
Q. How long does it take to cure cracked heels?
A. With proper care and treatment, you will start seeing signs of improvement within the first 7-14 days. If there is no improvement after a month, it is recommended that you see a doctor/physician to treat the underlying issue.
Q. Does your diet play a role in curing cracked heels?
A. A person’s diet is essential for both prevention and curing cracked feet. Proper hydration and taking vitamin supplements will aid in faster recovery. Increase your intake of fruits rich in folic acid and vitamin C like oranges, limes, and green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli for added benefits.