
Those crevices that make it such a natural skin file can fill up with dead skin and provide a home for bacteria,” says Dr. “If you use a pumice stone periodically-once every couple of weeks-soak the stone in some cleanser or bleach, then rinse it well. While calluses can be protective, when they get too thick, they can lose all flexibility and crack when you move,” Dr. “It helps keep any dry areas or calluses down. When you’re exfoliating after your foot soak, the best thing you can use is a pumice stone. It’s not only great for callused feet, but it can also be used to smooth out rough elbows and knees,” she says. “Urea is a keratolytic agent, meaning it helps to chemically exfoliate dead skin, leaving your feet soft and smooth. Roberta Del Campo, MD, a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist, recommends Excipial 20% Urea Intensive Healing Cream, which works great, but might be more pricey than what you could get from your doc. There are also options with urea you can get from the pharmacy without a prescription, but maybe not quite as strong. “If it’s truly just dry skin, we can prescribe emollients-such as ammonium lactate or urea cream-to get your skin healthy, then switch you to a lotion for maintaining that health.” Sometimes there can be a fungus exacerbating the problem,” Dr. “If proper, frequent application of high-quality over-the-counter products isn’t preventing fissures, check with your doctor. Sometimes when your cracked heels are severe, normal lotions won’t do the trick-and that’s when you have to bring in the big guns. You’ll be back on your feet and feeling good in no time. Here are some simple ways to soothe your cracked heels and give them some much-needed relief. That’s why it’s important to take care of the problem ASAP before things get worse.


Some cracks are minor, but more severe cases can lead to bleeding, discomfort, and pain-especially if bacteria seeps into the fissures.


While dry skin is the primary cause of cracked heels, it’s not the only culprit, according to the Institute for Preventive Foot Health: Here, experts explain what causes cracked heels-and how to heal them safely. In fact, doctors encourage affordable home remedies to keep your feet in tip-top shape. The good news is, treating your cracked heels doesn’t have to be complicated. Play icon The triangle icon that indicates to play
