Dealing with dry, cracked heels can be painful and frustrating. Whether it’s discomfort while walking or embarrassment when wearing open shoes, the impact is more than just cosmetic. The good news is that relief is within reach with some simple at-home remedies. These solutions are easy to follow and can help you restore softness and comfort to your heels.
Soak and Exfoliate with Epsom and Himalayan Salt
Combining Epsom and Himalayan salts in a warm foot soak delivers the benefits of both salts for treating dry, cracked heels. Epsom salt’s magnesium helps reduce inflammation and relax tired feet, while Himalayan salt’s rich mineral content nourishes and softens the skin. After soaking for 15-20 minutes, gently exfoliate your heels with a pumice stone to remove rough patches. This dual-salt soak promotes smoother, softer heels while rejuvenating your feet.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil works wonders as a moisturizer for dry, cracked heels. It penetrates deep into the skin, locking in moisture while also offering antibacterial benefits. Apply a generous amount before bed and cover your feet with socks to allow the oil to work overnight. You’ll notice softer heels in the morning after regular use.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids that nourish the skin. It’s thick and deeply hydrating, making it perfect for treating severely cracked heels. Massage it into your feet after a shower when the skin is still damp, allowing the moisture to be sealed in. This will leave your heels feeling softer and healthier over time.
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is one of the simplest and most effective remedies for dry skin. It forms a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss and helps heal cracked heels. For best results, apply a thick layer of petroleum jelly before bed, then cover your feet with socks. By morning, your skin will feel much smoother and more hydrated.
Honey
Honey is a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin, making it great for dry heels. It also has antibacterial properties that help heal any open cracks. Mix honey with warm water to create a foot soak or apply it directly to the heels as a mask. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off for soft, supple skin.
Oatmeal Scrub
An oatmeal scrub helps gently exfoliate and moisturize the skin. Combine ground oatmeal with honey or olive oil to create a thick paste, then rub it onto your heels in circular motions. This remedy not only removes dead skin but also provides soothing relief to irritated heels. Use it twice a week for the best results.
Lactic Acid Creams
Lactic acid is known for its exfoliating properties, making it a great choice for treating cracked heels. It gently dissolves dead skin cells while moisturizing the underlying healthy skin. Look for over-the-counter creams that contain lactic acid and apply them daily. Over time, this will help smooth out rough areas and keep your heels hydrated.
Milk and Honey Soak
A milk and honey soak is a natural way to soften and hydrate cracked heels. The lactic acid in milk exfoliates dead skin cells, while honey acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin. Mix one cup of milk with half a cup of honey in warm water and soak your feet for 20 minutes. This combination leaves your heels feeling soft, moisturized, and refreshed.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural emollient that deeply moisturizes dry skin. It’s packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help repair cracked heels. Simply massage a small amount of olive oil into your feet before bed, then cover them with socks. This simple remedy will leave your heels feeling soft and hydrated.
Baking Soda Soak
Baking soda helps soften calluses and reduce irritation on the skin. Add 3 tablespoons of baking soda to a warm foot soak and let your feet soak for 15 minutes. This treatment helps slough off dead skin and leaves your feet feeling refreshed. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin soft.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and healing properties, making it ideal for treating dry, cracked heels. It not only hydrates the skin but also helps repair the damage caused by cracking. Apply a generous layer of aloe vera gel to your heels before bedtime, then put on a pair of socks to lock in the moisture overnight.
Avocado and Banana Mask
A mask made from avocado and banana provides deep hydration to dry heels. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, while bananas are packed with vitamins that nourish the skin. Mash them together to form a thick paste, then apply it to your heels. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off for softer, smoother skin.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a powerful moisturizer that helps draw water into the skin, making it an excellent remedy for cracked heels. Apply glycerin directly to the dry areas of your feet or mix it with lemon juice for extra exfoliating power. Regular use will help heal the cracks and leave your feet feeling smooth.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help treat cracked heels, especially if infections are a concern. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and massage it into your heels. This will help soothe and heal the cracks while preventing further irritation.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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