What are cracked heels and what are the main causes?
Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common skin problem where the skin around the edge of the heel becomes extremely dry and cracked. While often seen as a purely aesthetic concern, it can also lead to discomfort and, in severe cases, infection.
The main causes of cracked heels include :
- Dry skin: often exacerbated by dry or cold climates.
- Prolonged walking or standing: increases pressure on heels.
- Excessive body weight: also contributes to increased pressure on the feet.
- Inappropriate footwear: open-backed shoes allow fat under the heel to spread laterally, increasing the risk of cracking.
- Underlying health problems: such as diabetes or thyroid problems, which can affect skin quality.
How can cracked heels be prevented?
Preventing cracked heels requires special attention to moisturizing and protecting the skin of the feet:
- Daily moisturizing: regular application of creams or oils specially formulated for feet can help maintain skin elasticity.
- Wearing appropriate footwear: choose shoes with good support and adequate heel coverage.
- Use of moisturizing socks: wearing socks impregnated with moisturizing substances can help moisturize heels overnight.
- Regular exfoliation: removing accumulated dead skin helps prevent thickening of the skin, which can lead to cracking.
What treatments are recommended for cracked heels?
To effectively treat cracked heels, it's crucial to adopt a skincare routine that combines hydration and protection:
- Moisturizing creams: apply creams rich in urea, salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids, which help moisturize and exfoliate dead skin.
- Footbaths: regular baths in lukewarm water with baking soda or Epsom salt can help soften the skin.
- Pumice stones: used with care to reduce the thickness of calluses, helping to heal cracks.
- Dressings: in severe cases, dressings can be used to protect cracks and support the healing process.
When should I consult a healthcare professional about cracked heels?
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if :
- Cracks are deep, bleeding or showing signs ofinfection.
- You suffer from diabetes or any other disease affecting blood circulation and healing.
- Home treatments show no improvement after several weeks.
How to identify the first signs of cracked heels?
Identifying the early signs of cracked heels is essential to prevent their worsening. Early signs include:
- Dryness and roughness: The skin around the heel becomes dry and rough to the touch.
- Skin thickening: Calluses form around the edge of the heel.
- Itching and discomfort: Sensations of tightness or itching due to dry skin.
- Color change: Skin may become paler, reddish or yellowish, indicating circulation or hydration problems.
These symptoms, while non-specific, can be early indicators of cracking and should prompt proactive action to moisturize and care for the feet.
What are the best practices for applying moisturizer to cracked heels?
The correct application of moisturizer is crucial to treating cracked heels. Here are the best practices:
- Clean your feet: Make sure your feet are clean and dry before application.
- Choice of cream: Use a cream rich in moisturizing agents such as glycerine, urea or shea butter.
- Generous application: Apply a generous layer of cream to the heel and any other dry areas.
- Massage: Gently massage the cream into the feet to promote absorption and stimulate blood circulation.
- Wear socks: After application, wear socks to retain moisture for several hours, ideally overnight.
Are there any effective home remedies for cracked heels?
Several home remedies can be used to treat cracked heels at home, including:
- Oil footbath: Add a few tablespoons of olive or coconut oil to warm water and soak your feet for 20 minutes.
- Honey as a moisturizer: Apply honey to heels before bed as a natural mask to deeply moisturize.
- Vaseline: Apply a layer of Vaseline to feet after a footbath and cover with socks for intense hydration.
- Aloe vera: Use aloe vera gel for its healing and moisturizing properties on cracked heels.
Can cracked heels be prevented by dietary changes?
Diet plays a key role in skin health, including that of the feet. To prevent cracked heels, consider the following adjustments to your diet:
- Hydration: Increase your water intake to keep skin hydrated from the inside out.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Incorporate sources of omega-3, such as oily fish, walnuts and chia seeds, which can help improve skin health.
- Vitamins A, C and E: Eat fruits and vegetables rich in these vitamins to promote skin repair and maintenance.
- Zinc: Include zinc-rich foods such as legumes, pumpkin seeds and meat to support skin healing.
When should I consider professional treatment for cracked heels?
Considering professional treatment is recommended if home care methods are not working, or if cracks are getting worse:
- Podiatry: A podiatrist can safely remove calluses and recommend specialized treatments.
- Dermatology: For severe cases, a dermatologist can prescribe high-concentration topical creams or other treatments.
- Custom orthotics: For structural foot problems contributing to cracked heels, orthopedic supports may be required.
