The good condition of our heels also depends on our eating a healthy and balanced diet. Drink plenty of water and remember to exfoliate your skin at least once a week
There is nothing more unsightly than having cracked heels, especially during the summer, when we want to show off our feet. Some of the causes of cracked heels are lack of attention and care, but also poor hydration, overexposure and excess pressure from uncomfortable shoes.
What are cracked heels?
Generally, healthy and well-groomed skin should show a homogeneous appearance and be elastic. But, being exposed to the environment, it receives multiple elements that can cause it to lose its state of health.
Although it is true that the skin of the feet and heels is thicker than in other areas of the body, if we hydrate it correctly it should stay healthy and with a smooth appearance. The problem comes when the skin on the heels loses hydration and becomes fragile, creating cracks.
These cracks will be enlarged as our feet receive the impact when walking or external agents such as the sun. Due to inadequate self-care, skin fissures may not heal properly and may still be present and may even cause discomfort.
Symptoms of cracked heels
The following signs are the most common:
- Cracked skin and peeling. Cracks appear and the skin becomes brittle, generating scales.
- Itch. It is caused by a decrease in the upper layers of the skin that causes the stretching of the lower ones. If not treated properly, it can increase the chance of developing an athlete’s foot and fungus.
- Bleeding or discharge This is a very serious problem because it indicates that cracks affect the innermost layers of tissue. In this case, it is recommended not to wear shoes without socks, or shoes that are too closed.
How to prevent and cure cracked heels?
Preventive habits
- Choose your footwear well. It is recommended that you look for a wide last shoe with few seams in contact with the skin. Avoid high heels and models with little heel support.
- Avoid taking long hot baths. Hot water can decrease skin hydration and remove the oils that protect it.
- Protect your feet from the sun.
- Drink water and consume foods with high water content. Providing hydration to the body is important in keeping our skin healthy.
- Use specific creams to treat your cracked heels.
Natural medicine
There is a popular belief that cracked heels can be greatly improved if the following natural remedies are used. However, and before continuing reading, we recommend, first of all, to go to the specialist doctor to guide us properly before making any changes in our lifestyle, since there is no scientific research that shows that these remedies are 100% effective.
- Apply vegetable oil (for example coconut) after washing and drying your feet. Put on a pair of thick socks so that it will penetrate more.
- Use the pulp of a ripe banana on the skin and leave it to act for 10 minutes before rinsing.
- Add half an avocado to half a coconut (the pulps) in the blender, along with a banana. Put the pasta on the heels and let it act.
- Soak your feet in lemon juice for 10 minutes once a week. It will remove dead skin. You can also rub the cracked heels gently to exfoliate with a brush.
Note: if, despite adequate hydration, it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.