Smoother Heels: Solutions for Cracked Feet

Are your feet feeling rough and uncomfortable? Do you suffer from cracked heels that seem impossible to manage? You're not alone. Many of us experience this common foot condition known as hyperkeratosis, which can lead to unsightly and sometimes painful cracks in the skin. But fear not! With the right knowledge and treatment, you can achieve smoother, healthier heels and say goodbye to discomfort.

Hyperkeratosis, also referred to as callused or thickened skin, occurs when there is an excessive buildup of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. This buildup is the body's natural response to repeated pressure, friction, or irritation. On the feet, hyperkeratosis often manifests as cracked heels, particularly in areas subjected to constant weight-bearing, such as the heels and balls of the feet.

Several factors can contribute to the development of cracked heels, including:

Dry Skin: Lack of moisture in the skin can lead to increased vulnerability and cracking.

Improper Footwear: Ill-fitting shoes or open-back footwear can exert pressure on the heels, exacerbating the problem.

Standing for Prolonged Periods: Jobs or activities that require prolonged standing can increase the likelihood of developing cracked heels.

Biomechanical Issues: Conditions such as flat feet or high arches can alter weight distribution, leading to increased pressure on specific areas of the feet.

Managing cracked heels involves a combination of proper foot care and targeted treatments. Here's how you can improve the condition of your cracked heels:

1. Soak in Epsom Salt:

Begin your foot care routine by indulging in a relaxing foot soak. Fill a basin or the bathtub with warm water and add a handful of Epsom salt. Allow your feet to soak for about 10 minutes. This helps to soften the hardened skin and prepare it for exfoliation.

2. Gently Exfoliate with a Pumice Stone:

After your feet soak, gently exfoliate the rough, dry areas of your heels with a pumice stone. Using light pressure, rub the stone in circular motions over the thickened areas. This helps to slough away dead skin cells and reveal smoother, softer skin underneath. Don't overdue this step as pressing too hard on the pumice stone can injure the skin.

3. Exfoliate with Urea 

If you are not pregnant or breastfeeding your best option for exfoliating cracked heels is urea 40% cream. Urea exfoliates hyperkeratosis by softening and loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting their shedding. This helps to reduce the thickness of callused areas, revealing smoother skin underneath.This product used to be a prescription but now is over the counter. Apply it after drying off your feet with a towel. 

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Moms Consult Your Healthcare Providers:

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's essential to consult with your obstetrician-gynecologist (OBGYN) and dermatologist before using Urea. Ask if you can safely use products containing urea 40% cream during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you have an established relationship with your healthcare providers, you may be able to inquire over the phone without needing an in-office visit. Simply call their office and request to speak with a healthcare professional about your specific concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation. Each doctor may have a different opinion, but since you are under their care, it's important to consult with them first. **If your doctor says you can’t use Urea then you should skip exfoliating your feet and go straight to hydrating your heels and feet with something thick and balmy, or my personal favorite castor oil. 

4. Occlusion for Maximum Hydration: 

Once the cream you have applied is dry, lock in moisture by covering your feet with thick socks after applying your treatment cream. This occlusive method allows the moisturizing ingredients to penetrate deeply, leaving your heels feeling soft and nourished overnight. 

**These 4 steps should be done daily until you reach the desired softness of your heels. Then they can be done as needed to maintain the results; maybe a couple times a week. 

5. Proper Footwear: 

Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes with adequate support to reduce pressure on the heels. Avoid open-back or high-heeled shoes that can exacerbate the problem. If you opt for wearing open back shoes understand that you will need to treat your heels more with the protocol above. 

Don't let cracked heels diminish your comfort or confidence. With the right approach, you can bid farewell to discomfort and hello to smoother, healthier heels. Whether you choose gentle mechanical exfoliation with a pumice stone, exfoliation with urea cream, or hydration with castor oil, proper foot care is essential on your journey towards happier feet. Remember, consistency is key, so stick to your foot care routine diligently until you achieve the desired results. Take the first step today towards stepping forward with confidence and comfort!