What Cream Is Best for Cracked Heels?
The best cream for cracked heels is one that contains a potent combination of emollients to hydrate and soften the skin and humectants to draw moisture from the environment, along with occlusives to seal in that moisture and protect the skin barrier. Creams containing urea, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are often particularly effective for exfoliating thickened skin and promoting healing.
Understanding Cracked Heels: Causes and Contributing Factors
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot problem characterized by splits in the skin around the heel. While they can be a cosmetic nuisance, severe cracks can be painful, bleed, and even become infected. Understanding the causes is crucial to choosing the right treatment.
Several factors can contribute to the development of cracked heels:
- Dry Skin (Xerosis): The most common cause is simply dry skin, often exacerbated by cold weather, low humidity, and prolonged exposure to water.
- Lack of Moisture: Insufficient hydration, both internal (not drinking enough water) and external (not moisturizing), can lead to skin dehydration.
- Friction and Pressure: Standing for long periods, wearing open-backed shoes or sandals, and being overweight can all increase pressure on the heels, causing them to split.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, athlete’s foot, and hypothyroidism can increase the risk of cracked heels.
- Certain Soaps and Detergents: Harsh soaps and detergents can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and cracking.
- Aging: As we age, our skin tends to produce less oil and becomes thinner and drier.
Key Ingredients to Look for in a Heel Cream
The effectiveness of a heel cream depends largely on its ingredients. Look for creams that contain a combination of:
Humectants: These attract moisture from the air and draw it into the skin. Examples include:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Urea
- Honey
Emollients: These soften and smooth the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells. Examples include:
- Shea butter
- Cocoa butter
- Jojoba oil
- Lanolin
Occlusives: These create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss. Examples include:
- Petrolatum (Vaseline)
- Beeswax
- Mineral oil
- Silicones (e.g., dimethicone)
Exfoliants: These help to remove dead skin cells, allowing moisturizers to penetrate more effectively. Examples include:
- Urea (at higher concentrations, e.g., 20-40%)
- Salicylic acid
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as lactic acid and glycolic acid
A Step-by-Step Guide to Treating Cracked Heels
Here’s a comprehensive approach to treating cracked heels:
Soak your feet: Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin.
Exfoliate gently: Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove dead skin. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can irritate the skin.
Apply a thick layer of heel cream: Choose a cream containing the ingredients mentioned above, and apply it liberally to your heels.
Cover your feet: Put on clean cotton socks to help the cream absorb and prevent it from rubbing off.
Repeat daily: Repeat this process once or twice daily, especially before bed.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Maintain a healthy diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also contribute to healthy skin.
Comparison of Common Ingredients
| Ingredient | Function | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urea | Humectant & Exfoliant | Hydrates, softens, and removes dead skin cells. | May cause mild stinging or irritation, especially at higher concentrations. |
| Salicylic Acid | Exfoliant | Removes dead skin cells, promoting smoother skin. | Can be drying and irritating, especially for sensitive skin. |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Humectant | Attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin. | Generally well-tolerated. |
| Shea Butter | Emollient | Softens and soothes the skin, providing rich hydration. | May be comedogenic for some individuals. |
| Petrolatum | Occlusive | Creates a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss. | Can feel greasy; may not be suitable for all skin types. |
| Lactic Acid (AHA) | Exfoliant | Gently exfoliates, improving skin texture and tone. | Can increase sun sensitivity; use sunscreen. |
| Glycerin | Humectant | Attracts moisture and helps keep the skin hydrated. | Generally well-tolerated. |
Preventing Cracked Heels: Long-Term Care
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent cracked heels:
- Moisturize regularly: Apply a good quality heel cream or moisturizer at least once a day, even when your heels are not cracked.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Avoid wearing open-backed shoes or sandals for extended periods, as they can increase pressure on the heels.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
- Avoid harsh soaps and detergents: Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and detergents that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extra pressure on your heels, increasing the risk of cracking.
- Consider orthotics: If you have flat feet or other foot problems, orthotics can help distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on your heels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Treating Cracked Heels
- Over-exfoliating: Exfoliating too vigorously or too often can damage the skin and make the problem worse.
- Using harsh soaps: Harsh soaps can dry out the skin and exacerbate cracking.
- Ignoring underlying medical conditions: If you have a medical condition that is contributing to your cracked heels, it’s important to treat the underlying condition.
- Not being consistent: Treating cracked heels takes time and consistency. Don’t expect to see results overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cracked Heels
Can I use regular lotion on my cracked heels?
While regular lotion can provide some basic hydration, it may not be sufficient for treating severely cracked heels. Heel creams are typically formulated with higher concentrations of humectants, emollients, and occlusives, making them more effective at addressing the specific needs of cracked skin.
How often should I exfoliate my cracked heels?
Exfoliate your cracked heels no more than once or twice a week. Over-exfoliating can damage the skin and make the problem worse. Be gentle and avoid using harsh abrasives.
Is petroleum jelly (Vaseline) a good treatment for cracked heels?
Yes, petroleum jelly is an excellent occlusive, meaning it creates a barrier on the skin that prevents moisture loss. Apply it after moisturizing to seal in the hydration. However, it doesn’t actively hydrate the skin, so it should be used in conjunction with a humectant and emollient.
Are cracked heels a sign of a serious medical condition?
In most cases, cracked heels are not a sign of a serious medical condition. However, if you have severe cracks, bleeding, pain, or signs of infection, you should consult a doctor to rule out underlying medical problems like diabetes or eczema.
Can I use foot masks for cracked heels?
Yes, certain foot masks that contain hydrating and exfoliating ingredients can be beneficial for cracked heels. Look for masks with ingredients like shea butter, urea, or AHAs. Use them in conjunction with a good heel cream.
Do I need to see a podiatrist for cracked heels?
If your cracked heels are severe, painful, or showing signs of infection, it’s best to see a podiatrist. They can provide professional treatment and rule out any underlying medical conditions.
How long does it take to heal cracked heels?
The time it takes to heal cracked heels varies depending on the severity of the cracks and your consistency with treatment. With regular moisturizing and exfoliation, you may see improvement within a week or two. More severe cases may take longer.
Are there any home remedies for cracked heels?
Some home remedies that may help include honey, coconut oil, and lemon juice. However, the effectiveness of these remedies is not always scientifically proven, and it’s important to use caution and discontinue use if you experience any irritation.
Can certain vitamins help with cracked heels?
While not a direct treatment, deficiencies in certain vitamins, like vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin C, can contribute to dry skin. Ensuring you have adequate intake of these vitamins through diet or supplements may support overall skin health.
Can dehydration cause cracked heels?
Yes, dehydration can definitely contribute to dry and cracked skin, including cracked heels. Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Is it okay to wear socks with sandals?
While it may not be the most fashionable choice, wearing socks with sandals can actually help to protect your heels from friction and dryness, especially if you’re prone to cracked heels. Choose breathable cotton socks.
Are expensive heel creams always better?
Not necessarily. The effectiveness of a heel cream depends more on its ingredients than its price tag. Look for creams with the ingredients mentioned earlier in this article, regardless of the brand or price. Read ingredient lists carefully and prioritize those that offer a combination of humectants, emollients, and occlusives.