Cracked heels are not the look you want for your feet – especially in summer. Summer is the season for sandals and thongs, and the last thing you want is to be hiding your feet away when it’s 30 degrees plus. If you want to find out how to prevent cracked heels, this blog is just for you!
There are a few different things you can do to prevent cracked heels, so here are 7 tips which you can take on board and start doing today to get your feet looking ship shape.
Foot Soak
Soaking your feet regularly will help to keep the skin on your feet soft and smooth. Heels often take the brunt when it comes to cracked skin on your feet, so giving them some love is recommended, especially during summer.
The key with foot soaks is to use lukewarm water, not piping hot water. Think the same temperature you’d use for a baby bath. This gives enough warmth to soften the skin, without making your skin too soft which can have the opposite effect you’re trying to achieve.
You can also add things like Epsom salts or essential oils, but make sure you check the volumes with a pharmacist or your podiatrist. Apple cider vinegar is also really great for extremely dry feet and heels.
Exfoliation
Exfoliating your feet is a simple way to get rid of the dead skin around your feet. A pumice stone is ideal for foot exfoliation, or a foot file also does the job. You can pick these up at your local pharmacy or even some supermarkets.
Heel Balm
Once you’ve soaked and exfoliated your feet, keeping them moisturised will help keep them smoother for longer. Invest in a good quality balm specifically for feet and heels (we recommend a cream with at least 20% urea in the ingredients) and apply this daily in the morning before you start your day as well as in the evenings before you go to bed.
Wear Closed Shoes
Not always easy in summer, but wearing closed shoes will help to protect your feet from the elements. The harsh heat and sun can wreak havoc with your feet so try and balance your time in open shoes like sandals and thongs, with more supportive, enclosed shoes.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water. Water helps to keep your skin hydrated and therefore you are less likely to end up with dry or cracked skin.
Eat More Omega-3
We all know omega-3 is brain food, but did you know it’s also great for improving skin elasticity? This means your skin is more likely to be supple and smooth and less prone to drying out and cracking. Some excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids are oily fish (such as sardines, tuna, salmon and mackerel), walnuts, chia seeds, eggs, flaxseed and dark green leafy vegetables.
Avoid Foot Care Products Containing Alcohol
Alcohol is known to dry out your skin, so try to avoid foot care products with alcohol in them. It may mean you have to read the labels more carefully but it will help you maintain summer ready heels all year round.
If you can’t seem to repair your cracked heels, it might be time for a visit to our Sydney foot clinic. Our podiatrists in Alexandria help patients with a wide range of foot problems from cracked heels to fungal toe nail infections and ingrown toenails. Book your appointment with our podiatrist online here or call us on 02 8096 4763.
