Memorial Day weekend will be here before you know it, and the last thing you want to show off are dry cracked heels. There is still plenty of time to get your feet in shape before your trip to the Jersey Shore or Lake Taghkanic, and Hollowbrook Foot Specialists has all of the tips you need for soft, smooth heels.
What Causes Dry Cracked Heels?
- Cold winter weather
- Indoor heating
- Shoes that fit improperly
- Improper foot care
What Can I Do To Get Rid Of My Dry Cracked Heels?
- Try a foot soak!
- Salt Water Soak: Mix ¼ cup of table salt into warm water in a basin. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes and then empty basin. Now add cool water to the basin and quickly dunk your feet 1-2 times. This can help improve blood flow to your feet while softening the skin.
- Vinegar Soak: Mix ¼ cup of white vinegar into warm water in a basin. Soak your feet for 10–15 minutes, and then exfoliate using a pumice stone. (The acidity in vinegar softens up dry skin.)
- Always test the water temperature with your elbow. It should be lukewarm – not hot! After the soak, dry your feet thoroughly and apply a moisturizer (NOT between the toes.) Finally, put on a clean pair of cotton socks so your feet can breathe.
- Make a foot scrub!
- These scrubs can be slippery, so be extra careful!
- Fig Scrub: Blend fresh figs with solid coconut oil. Add enough sugar to make a dry, gritty scrub. As you massage the mixture onto your feet, the coconut oil will melt, causing the sugar to melt as well.
- Rice Flour Scrub: Mix a handful of ground rice flour with a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, honey, and olive oil. Add more rice flour as needed to make a thick paste. Scrub your feet with the paste, focusing on rough areas.
- Use ingredients that you already have in your kitchen!
- Vegetable Oil
- Lemon Juice
- Mashed Bananas
- Honey
- These items can be directly applied to the feet and massaged in. It is a good idea to soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes before applying these natural softeners to your feet. Always rinse and dry thoroughly, apply a moisturizer, and put on cotton socks.
If your heels need more help than an at home foot soak or scrub we can help. Dry cracked heels can also be a serious concern. Sometimes cracks can deepen and form fissures in the skin that can bleed, become infected, and be painful. If you notice dry cracked heels that are painful or bleeding, schedule an appointment to see Dr. Schlam at Hollowbrook Foot Specialists by calling (845) 298 – 9074 or by clicking here.
By: David Schlam
