If you’ve ever dealt with the discomfort of cracked heels, you know the struggle is real. Don’t worry cause in this post, I am going to share some practical tips that have helped me over the years. Here is how to get rid of cracked heels naturally so relax and let’s give your feet the TLC they deserve!

Common Causes Of Cracked Heels

You are not alone, cracked heels affect everyone at some point and are usually not cause for concern. However, in very rare cases, cracked heels can be a symptom of some health problems. Here are some of the most common causes of cracked heels:

• Lack Of Moisture– not moisturizing your feet often can cause cracks in your heels.
• Standing Too Much– Putting too much pressure on your feet can lead to cracked heels
• Wrong Shoes – shoes that don’t fit well or lack support can cause cracked heels 
• Long Hot Showers – Long hot showers have been shown to cause dryness and cracked heels
• Harsh Soaps – soaps with tough chemicals can strip the natural oils from your skin and cause cracked heels
• Aging– as we age, our skin loses elasticity which makes it prone to cracking
• Medical Conditions -thyroid, diabetes, and even vitamin B3 deficiency can cause cracked heels

How To Heal Cracked Heels Naturally

Now that we’ve covered the main causes of cracked heels, here are some of the most effective ways to reduce your fissures at home naturally.

1. Moisturize Your Feet Regularly

To help reduce cracked heels, always moisturize your feet right after taking a shower while your skin is still damp. This helps lock the moisture into your pores. It is also best to moisturize your feet daily so if you don’t want to shower daily, do a lukewarm foot soak before applying your cream.

When choosing moisturizers, go for the ones that contain skin-softening agents such as urea, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acid. These types of moisturizers are perfect for removing dead skin cells but they can cause stinging or irritation.

2. Do A Foot Soak

Another effective way to heal cracked heels is by doing a foot soak regularly. Soak your feet for about 10 minutes in plain lukewarm or soapy water and pat them dry. Once you’re done, use a loofah or foot scrubber and gently remove scrub off the dead skin.

I usually apply a good amount of Vaseline and wear a pair of cotton socks before bedtime. This has helped me a lot over the years. If you don’t have Vaseline, any petroleum jelly will do. I have a ton of foot soak recipes that work like a charm.

You can also try this DIY callous remover as well. This DIY foot peel and Japanese Detox Foot Soak are lifesavers!

3. 5-10 Minute Showers

As I mentioned above, taking long hot showers is one of the causes of cracked heels so to prevent symptoms, it’s better to take 5-10 minute lukewarm baths instead. Try this method for at least a month and see if it helps. 

4. Go Natural

Using mild or all-natural soaps and cleansers can help prevent cracked heels and help your skin retain moisture. You see, most soaps and cleansers contain harsh ingredients that can dry out the skin so choose what you use on your skin carefully. 

5. Wear The Right Shoes

If you have cracked heels, you must refrain from wearing shoes that are open around the heels such as flip flops, or slingbacks because you want to protect your heels from dry air and germs. You also want to make sure your shoes fit properly or loose to prevent pressure.

6. Seek Medical Help 

If you’ve tried all of the above and they still don’t help you get rid of your symptoms, it’s time to seek medical help. Since cracked heels can be caused by diabetes, thyroid problems, and even vitamin deficiency, your doctor will be able to get you the right treatment. 

Also, when left untreated, cracked heels can turn into fissures that may become infected so see a dermatologist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cracked Heels And Vitamin Deficiency

When the body lacks vitamin B3, it can cause pellagra with dry and cracked heels. Vitamin B3 belongs to the group of water-soluble vitamins that help the body use protein and fat to maintain skin, hair, and skin.

Does Drinking Water Help With Cracked Heels?

The feet have a large number of sweat glands, which require more water than usual. Being dehydrated or not drinking enough water can cause the skin on your feet to become irritated, sensitive, dry, and cracked.

How Long Does Cracked Heels Take To Heel?

With the right treatment, it can take about a week to start seeing results. If your cracked heels are not too thick or deep, you are in luck. for those with more severe symptoms though, it may take up to four weeks to get rid of cracked heels. 

How Often Should You Soak Cracked Heels

For less severe symptoms, once a week is perfect and should get you results. That said, a dermatologist will decide how often you may need a foot soak to reduce your symptoms. 

When To Be Worried About Cracked Heels

Once your cracked heels become infected, large, deep, and painful to stand on or walk, it’s time to see a doctor. Leaving it untreated is not recommended. 

Conclusion

There you go! Now you know how to heal cracked heels naturally at home. I hope you found this post helpful and try some of these tips. If you do, let me know which ones worked for you in the comments below. You can also find me on Pinterest for more helpful tips.