Dry, flaky skin can be a result of climate, such as very dry summers and/or cold winters.
Keep in mind that the extra weight requires more expansion of the heel, which usually results in cracking or splitting of the skin through the callus.
Thongs, open backed or sling sandals are frequently the culprits. High heels can also cause heel discomfort and dryness.
Hard floors can be detrimental your foot’s health so try to wear orthopedic footwear.
Thyroid problems have also been known to cause cracked heels.
Your heel’s skin will be quite to very rough to the touch, and might even become sharp. In other words, you skin might have lost so much moisture that it could rip light textures apart.
If you know you suffer of diabetes or thyroid diseases, consult your physician right away.
Using a cream or balm in the morning is crucial. Remember, you need to increase the skin’s elasticity before you start using your feet so that existing dry skin doesn’t get worse (and potentially preventing new dry skin from forming). Use a foot balm right before going to bed and put on soft socks to seal in the moisture. You can also just apply the balm or cream; adding the socks simply aids in additional hydration. Highly effective is Urea 20%, a natural and inexpensive product which is clear and odorless and in nature it’s job is moisturizing the skin. Don’t like to get your hands greasy? No worries. Nowadays there are a variety of products, tailored to various needs and tastes. Try a gel, or cream in stick form to avoid stickiness on your hands completely.
Soaking your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes will soften the skin, making the pumice stone more effective. Try using the foot file on your feet when they’re dry and wet. This will give you an idea of what condition most readily responds to this treatment. Follow both treatments with a moisturizer. Highly effective is Urea 20%, a natural and inexpensive product which is clear and odorless and in nature it’s job is moisturizing the skin. In the event of bad cracks, a highly effective method is to utilize a food wrap (Press & Seal seems to work well) to keep the Urea cream from being absorbed by socks (note-this may make the feet feel hot so keep on as long as comfortable). .
Always wash your hands before touching an open would, or the cracks in the skin.
Flip flops are great at the pool, and during the summer, but try to avoid making these a year-round habit. Women should limit the use of heels higher than 3 inches.
