Cracked feet are a sign of lack of proper foot care. The skin on this area is usually dry as there are no oil glands in the skin of the feet. This problem can occur in any person but is more common among those who are diabetic or aged.
Causes of cracked feet
- Being overweight can exert pressure on the feet making them expand, leading to cracked feet.
- Aging causes loss of natural oils resulting in the dry skin which tends to crack
- Medical conditions such as thyroid problems, psoriasis, athlete's foot, and diabetes.
- Continuous exposure to water.
- Standing for a long time.
- Having naturally dry skin.
Prevent cracked feet
- Use natural oils or creams to keep the skin moisturized.
- Use mild soaps while bathing.
- Drink plenty of water to keep the skin hydrated.
- Wear right fitting shoes which will allow your feet to breathe.
- Avoid using products containing alcohol as they will worsen dry skin.
- Use baby oil as it is mild and does not contain any skin irritants.
- Massage vegetable oil on the dry and cracked areas after washing the feet clean; wear a pair of thick socks. Leave it overnight and see positive results in few days.
- Apply the pulp of a ripe banana (half avocado and fresh coconut can also be added) on the dry or cracked area of the heel. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse it clean.
- Soak the feet in lemon juice for about 10 minutes. Follow this therapy on a weekly basis until one finds a change.
- Soak the feet in warm soapy water for about 15 minutes. Rinse feet and pat dry. Make a mixture comprising of: one teaspoon Vaseline and the juice of one lemon. Rub this mixture onto the cracked heels and other required areas of the feet till it is thoroughly absorbed. Repeat daily until visible results are obtained.
- A regular application of a mixture of glycerin and rosewater is known to soothe and cure cracked heels.
- Apply a mixture of paraffin wax and mustard oil on the dry or cracked area of the heels. Rinse it off in the morning. A continuous application for 10 to 15 days can achieve desirable results
- Apply a deep moisturizing lotion or Vaseline and put on the socks to cover it for some time. This method will protect the feet from excessive dryness.
- You could also heat up some Coconut oil, add some wax into it and after cooling apply it onto your heels.
- Another solution is to melt paraffin wax and mix it well with little mustard oil. Apply on the affected area of your heels. Wash it off in the morning. Do this for 10 or 15 days and see the difference.
- A regular application of a mixture of glycerin and rosewater is known to soothe and cure cracked heels.
- Grind a handful of rice (into coarse flour). Add a few spoons of raw honey and apple cider vinegar to obtain a thick paste. If the cracks are very deep, you can add a spoon of olive oil/ almond oil to the paste. Soak your feet for 20 minutes and then gently massage them with this paste.
- Always wash your feet properly whenever you come from outside. Sleep after washing your feet.
When to seek medical help?
If you experience pain, severe itching, bleeding or discharge from the cracked areas, contact a dermatologist!
