Cracked Heels: What’s Causing the Cracks & How to Get Smooth, Happy Feet
Ever slipped off your socks and they hooked or got stuck on your dry cracked heels? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Cracked heels (a.k.a. heel fissures) are a super common foot complaint, and while they can feel uncomfortable and sometimes be painful, they’re totally treatable. So, let’s dive in – what causes them, how to fix them, and, most importantly, how to keep your feet as smooth as a baby’s!
What Are Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels happen when the skin around your heels becomes too dry and thick, leading to fissures (or cracks) that can range from superficial to deep and painful. Some cracks can even bleed or become infected if left untreated – ouch!
Think of it like a riverbed in the middle of a drought: when the moisture disappears, cracks form. Your heels go through the same thing when they don’t get enough hydration and care.
What Causes Cracked Heels?
Your heels don’t just decide to crack for fun—there’s always a reason. Here are some of the most common culprits:
🔹 Dry Skin – The number one cause! Lack of moisture leads to tough, inflexible skin that eventually cracks under pressure.
🔹 Standing for Long Periods – If you’re on your feet all day, especially on hard floors, your heels are taking a beating.
🔹 Open-Back Shoes & Sandals – Without the support of a closed shoe, your heels can expand and become more prone to splitting.
🔹 Hot Showers & Harsh Soaps – Long, steamy showers might feel great, but they strip your skin of natural oils, making it dry and prone to cracking.
🔹 Walking Barefoot – Your skin loses moisture more quickly when it’s exposed to rough surfaces.
🔹 Medical Conditions – Conditions like diabetes, eczema, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism can cause excessively dry skin, making cracked heels more likely.
🔹 Aging – As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen and moisture, making it harder to stay soft and supple.
Medications That Can Cause Thick, Dry Skin
Sometimes, cracked heels aren’t just about wearing the wrong shoes or skipping the moisturizer—they can also be linked to certain medications. Some drugs can cause dehydration, alter skin cell turnover, or lead to dryness as a side effect, making the skin on your feet more prone to cracking.
Medications that may contribute to dry, thickened skin include:
- Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide) – These medications help remove excess fluid from the body but can also lead to dehydration, leaving your skin parched.
- ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Ramipril, Lisinopril) – Commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, ACE inhibitors can sometimes cause skin dryness as a side effect.
- Beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol, Atenolol) – These medications may slow down skin cell renewal, leading to rough, thickened skin over time.
- Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin, Simvastatin) – Used to lower cholesterol, statins can sometimes cause skin dryness and irritation.
- Retinoids (e.g., Isotretinoin, Acitretin) – While great for acne, these vitamin A derivatives can cause excessive skin dryness, including on the feet.
- Lithium – Often prescribed for bipolar disorder, lithium is known to cause severe skin dryness, which can lead to cracked heels if not managed properly.
- Chemotherapy Drugs – Some cancer treatments can lead to hand-foot syndrome, causing extreme dryness, peeling, and cracking of the skin on the soles and palms.
If you’re on any of these medications and struggling with cracked heels, be extra diligent with hydration – both inside and out! Drink plenty of water and moisturize regularly. If the problem persists, consult a podiatrist to tailor a treatment plan that works for you.
How to Treat Cracked Heels
If you’re already dealing with cracked heels, don’t panic—there’s plenty you can do to get them back in shape. Here’s your step-by-step rescue plan:
1. Soak & Exfoliate
Start with a lukewarm (not hot!) foot soak to soften the skin. Add Epsom salts or a few drops of essential oil for a spa-like feel. Then, use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove dead skin. Don’t go overboard—too much exfoliation can make things worse!
2. Moisturize Like It’s Your Job
Immediately after exfoliating, slather on a thick, urea-based foot cream (urea helps break down dry skin and deeply hydrate). Some of the best creams I recommend to my patients include:
- Flexitol Heel Balm – A great all-rounder with urea to soften and repair tough skin.
- CCS Foot Care Cream – Hydrating and fast-absorbing with a nice, non-greasy feel.
- ONCE Heel Balm – A powerhouse for cracked heels, especially for overnight treatment.
3. Seal It In
For extra effectiveness, wear cotton socks overnight after applying your moisturizer. This locks in moisture and gives your heels time to absorb all the goodness.
4. Stay Hydrated
Good skin starts from within! Drink plenty of water to keep your skin naturally hydrated.
5. Choose the Right Footwear
Ditch the flip-flops and backless shoes for a while. Opt for well-fitted, cushioned shoes that support your heels.
6. Avoid Harsh Soaps & Hot Water
Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser and keep your showers short and warm, not scalding hot.
7. Use a Heel Balm Daily
If you’re prone to cracked heels, a daily application of a heel balm with urea, salicylic acid, or lanolin can prevent them from returning. (Again, Flexitol, CCS, and ONCE Heel Balm are fantastic choices!)
How to Prevent Cracked Heels
Now that you’ve got your heels looking smooth again, here’s how to keep them that way:
✅ Moisturize Daily – Make it a habit to apply a foot cream before bed.
✅ Wear Supportive Shoes – Avoid walking barefoot or wearing flimsy sandals too often.
✅ Use a Pumice Stone Weekly – A gentle buff once a week keeps dead skin from building up.
✅ Eat a Healthy Diet – Omega-3s (found in fish, flaxseeds, and nuts) help keep skin supple.
✅ Stay Hydrated – Dry skin starts from dehydration, so drink up!
✅ Protect Your Feet in the Shower – Use a gentle cleanser instead of harsh soaps that strip moisture.
When to See a Podiatrist
Most cracked heels can be treated at home, but sometimes, professional help is needed. Book a podiatry appointment if you experience:
🚨 Severe pain or bleeding
🚨 Deep cracks that won’t heal
🚨 Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)
🚨 You have diabetes or circulation issues – Cracked heels can lead to serious complications.
A podiatrist can safely remove thickened skin, recommend specialized treatments, and ensure your feet stay healthy.
Final Thoughts
Cracked heels may be common, but they don’t have to be a permanent part of your life. With a little care and attention, your feet can be smooth, pain-free, and sandal-ready year-round! So, show your heels some love—they carry you around all day, after all!
Need professional foot care? Get in touch today to book an appointment and give your feet the expert treatment they deserve!