Cracked heels: Effective remedies for smooth, pain-free feet
Cracked heels are not just an aesthetic issue; they are often accompanied by discomfort and pain. How can this be remedied? Both home solutions and pharmacy products, which can be purchased at an affordable price, are helpful.
When taking care of your feet, it is especially important to focus on regular skincare. Lack of moisturisation and inappropriate footwear negatively affect the condition of the skin on your feet, leading to cracks and calluses.
If you prefer natural methods, baths in water with sea salt or apple cider vinegar can be beneficial. They have antibacterial and softening properties, which effectively support daily care.
How to care for your feet?
When home methods are insufficient, it is worth using pharmacy products. Ointment with vitamin A, known for its strong moisturising properties, aids in the regeneration of dry and rough skin. It is recommended to apply it up to three times a day, preferably at night. A lesser-known solution is cholesterol ointment, which creates a protective layer on the skin that acts like a plaster. What else is effective in foot care?
- The skin of the feet should be regularly moisturised with urea-containing products at the appropriate concentration. The best products contain between 5% and 15% urea. They retain moisture in the epidermis, keeping the feet moisturised. Avoid creams with acids and products with a high concentration of urea, such as 30%, as they have a drying effect - says Sylwia Purzyńska in an interview with WP Kobieta.
Be careful with pumice
To effectively combat cracked heels, gentle exfoliation of dead skin is crucial. However, remember that excessive use of a pumice stone or foot file can lead to the opposite effect.
- Calluses on the sole should be gently sanded down dry, not wet. It's best to use a paper foot file. However, this should not be done every day to avoid stimulating the skin, which may contribute to problems with cracked heels or the formation of larger calluses. It's advisable to "sand" heels when necessary, but no more often than once every two weeks - explains the expert.
If none of the methods tried bring results, consultation with a dermatologist or podiatrist is advised. Cracks on the heels may be a symptom of various conditions that require specialist care.
