We are sure you are no stranger to the concept of cracked heels, also known as heel fissures. The cracks or fissures usually occur when the bottom part of the feet gets too dry. This dryness results in your heels opening up (you can actually see and feel the cracks), making it uncomfortable for you to walk with ease and can also make way for infections (due to bacteria and viruses entering through the cracks). In some cases, cracked heels can become really sore and bleed. While people of different ages may experience this condition, studies suggest that it is usually common amongst women and senior citizens more than anyone else.
What causes cracked heels?
While there are several possible reasons why an individual may experience cracked heels, the overarching reason remains the same – lack of moisture. When the moisture content in our skin reduces (especially around the heel area), it causes the skin to crack. Hence the term dry, cracked heels. Here are some of the key causes:
- Dehydration caused due to a lack of adequate daily water intake
- Dehydration due to poor nutrition
- Extremely hot showers (or dipping your feet in hot water for long periods of time)
- Using certain soaps that leave the feet dry
- Excessive scrubbing or exfoliation of the feet
- Not using moisturizing products on the feet, thus leaving the skin dry
- Cold weather conditions and harsh winters
- Diabetes (nerve damage due to abnormal blood sugar levels)
- Obesity (due to the extra weight on the heels, which make them expand and crack)
How to prevent or cure cracked heels?
Healing cracked heels, especially for those who tend to struggle with the condition frequently, calls for some simple things that one can do at home. Before you feel the need to visit a podiatrist, try the following:
- Regularly moisturizing your feet/heels with an oil-based moisturizer
- Drinking generous amount of water
- Wear the right footwear
- Avoid walking barefoot, especially during winters
- Consuming a well-balanced diet on a daily basis
- Keeping a tab on your weight by exercising regularly
- Avoiding extreme scrubbing and exfoliation
- Using lukewarm or cold water for your everyday showers
Of course, these remedies can only go a certain extent in ensuring that you keep cracked heels at bay. So, we have compiled a list of some top-rated products, available online at Seniority, that can help deal with the problem.
1. Anti-Crack Heel Sleeves Set
The product does exactly what its name suggests. These silicone heel protectors (gel-based pads) prevent the thickening of the skin and deliver hydration therapy to prevent and/or cure cracked heels.
An exfoliator that gently cleans and nourishes your feet, this lead-free scrub that is made from natural red clay helps keep your heels soft and clean. You can use it with any soap and we recommend using an oil-based moisturizing product after your scrub your feet clean.
Enriched with the goodness of vital vitamins and natural oils (jojoba oil, olive oil, and lavender oil), these gel-infused socks are great for senior citizens who are at risk of developing dry and cracked heels.
If your daily routine involves a lot of walking or any other activity that requires you to move around, these silicone insoles are ideal for you. Anatomically positioned, you can use these insoles to lower the risk of cracked heels, improve blood circulation and reduce the impact of the shock on the heel, ankle, and foot.
5. Electronic Pedicure Foot File and Smoother
Dr. Scholl’s revolutionary device is a fantastic product for those of you who like to pamper your feet. Give yourself a professional pedicure at home with this ergonomically-shaped device that uses Spin Technology Rotating System to remove rough skin, corns, and calluses. A must-have for those who have dry, cracked heels!
6. Foot Cleaner
If you are looking for something simpler, this foot cleaning product is great for your needs. Its soft brush can help you exfoliate dead skin, clean your feet and also massage them gently. What makes this product ideal for the elderly is the fact that the user doesn’t need to bend at all in order to use the foot cleaner!
So, there you have it! Some great home remedies and six amazing products that can help you prevent and heal cracked heels. Thank us later for your Happy Feet!
