How to Soothe Dry Cracked Feet

Your feet bear all your weight; take care of them.

Severely dry skin on your feet can be painful, especially if they crack or bleed. EPodiatry.com refers to these cracks as heel fissures. When skin is already dry, factors such as prolonged standing, being overweight, open back shoes and skin conditions can exacerbate the dryness and discomfort. Regular care can help soothe dry cracked feet and heal the cracks.

Things You'll Need

• Oil-based moisturizer
• Petroleum-based ointment
• Cotton socks
• Mineral oil
• Epsom salt
• Pumice stone

Instructions

1. Avoid walking around barefoot. Resist the temptation to walk barefoot on the beach or at home. Wear socks or slippers.

2. Apply moisturizer to your heels at least twice a day and always after you bathe. General internist Dr. Gott says to apply an ointment such as Bag balm or Vicks at night then to put socks on over the ointment and wear them overnight.

3. Soak your feet in a basin of lukewarm water mixed with mineral oil or Epsom salts. Do not use hot water as this will further dry your skin. Repeat this weekly or several times a week.

4. 

   Pumice stones exfoliate and soften skin.

   Exfoliate the skin. After soaking your feet in a bath or basin, use a foot scrub or pumice stone to help remove dry skin or calluses. Use pumice stones gently so you don't irritate or cut your feet. Aim for a few soft and short strokes against your foot.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear white cotton socks when trying to heal your feet; white cotton socks don't contain dyes that can irritate cracked skin.

• Massage emu oil, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, eucalyptus oil or aloe vera into dry feet in place of moisturizer. But read the product labels and test on your skin before using large amounts.

• If you are experiencing pain or have open wounds on your feet, consult a doctor immediately.

References

• Ask Dr. Gott: Help for Dry, Cracked Feet
• EPodiatry.com: Cracked Heels