Cracked heels can be a painful threat to health

As the temperature and sandals of the debut in the season increases, our feet enter the spotlight delicate. But Summer is challenges that make foot care particularly vital. Hot, sun exposure and temptation to go barefoot can lead to desiccated, cracked heels – leaving uncomfortable feet.

Good news? A few basic habits can keep your feet hearty, glossy and ready for the sandal season.

Cracked heels – also known as heel gaps – develop due to desiccated skin and reduced elasticity. Because the feet are lacking in sebaceous glands, they do not produce natural oils, which makes them more susceptible to dryness. In response to friction and pressure, the skin thickens, but it added the thickness can share under stress walking or standing.

Summer tends to deteriorate the problem. Open shoes, such as flip -flops, allow you to expand the fat pad, increasing stress on the surrounding skin. Studies show This repetitive exposure to sizzling and desiccated environments significantly reduces skin hydration, increasing the risk of developing gaps. Long hours standing at parties or walking on sizzling surfaces – such as pavement or tiles by the pool – additionally weaken the skin barrier.

Other factors contributing They include obesity that exerts greater pressure on high heels. Conditions such as eczema And psoriasis, especially when they cause broken skin, significantly threatens the skin barriers. These conditions can lead to inflammation, dryness and reduction of moisture retention, weakening the skin’s ability to act as a protective barrier. Excess moisture from sweating or prolonged soaking can soften the skin too much and reduce its immunity, what to do susceptible to crevices.

Cracked heels are a cosmetic problem – they can become painful and even dangerous. Without treating the gaps, they can deepen and bleed, making walking uncomfortable and increasing the risk of infection.

For people with a disease such as diabetes, hypothyroidism or vascular disease, even miniature cracks can escalate in serious complicationsincluding connective tissue or ulcers. Indigent circulation and reduced healing ability mean that these problems can become solemn quickly.

Prevention

Prevention is basic and effective when it is part of the daily routine.

Moisturize daily – apply creams with 10% of the urea Or Lactic acid To stop moisture and soften the thickened skin.

Wear support footwear – while sandals are summer staples, many do not have adequate support. Choose shoes with cushioning and heel support if possible. If you wear open styles, alternately with more structured footwear to minimize heel stress.

Avoid walking barefoot on abrasive or sizzling surfaces desiccated the skin and causes micro-trauma that boost the risk of cracking.

Remain hydrated – drinking enough water helps maintain skin elasticity From the inside.

Exfoliate every week – briefly immerse your feet (up to five minutes), and then gently remove the dead skin with a stone or file. This prevents accumulation thickened skin.

Treatment

If the cracks have already been formed, timely treatment can support heal and restore skin health.

Operate the heel balm – apply the formula containing 10-25% of urea and to 6% salicylic acid. Urea deeply moisturizes and softens bulky skin, while salicylic acid helps in exfoliation. Avoid using these products during the day if you wear open shoes, because they can make your feet slippery, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.

Night occlusion – apply balm before bedtime and cover the cotton socks to block moisture. Studies show This improves hydration and accelerates healing.

If necessary, see a professional-if your heels are seriously cracked, infected or do not react to home care, consult the podiatra. They can apply medical adhesives or prescribe stronger treatments to support healing.

Be careful if you are at a high risk category-if you have diabetes, circulation problems or inflammatory skin conditions, regular foot checks and quick treatment of miniature cracks are crucial. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence The guidelines recommend Professional care and properly equipped footwear to avoid solemn complications.

Note: Leather socks

Exfoliating foot skins – often sold as “foot skin socks” – contain exfoliants such as glycolic, lactic or salicylic acid, usually at concentrations of 5–17%. These acids support lose layers of dead skin and can be effective for general roughness. However, they are not recommended for cracked heels or heel crevices.

The skin used on damaged or fragile skin can cause irritation, delay healing and boost the risk of infection. People with basic health problems that affect skin integrity – such as diabetes, indigent circulation or chronic skin conditions – should be particularly cautious. In such cases, Experts advise Chemical exfoliated due to the higher risk of skin damage and slower healing.

Instead, targeted treatments, such as heel balms containing 10-25% of urea, offer a safer, more appropriate option. They support soften and moisturize desiccated, thickened skin without harming the protective barrier.

Your feet support you every day; This summer, reverse a favor. With a little daily care, smart footwear elections and early intervention, when problems arise, you can keep your feet and feel great.

Cracked heels do not have to be part of your summer history.