How to Treat Cracked Heels: Natural Remedies and Expert Tips

What are Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heels becomes excessively dry, thickened, and begins to split. This condition is caused by factors like inadequate foot care, prolonged standing, or wearing open-back shoes. Cracked heels can be painful and unsightly, potentially leading to infections if left untreated. Regular moisturizing and proper foot hygiene are crucial for prevention and management.

While often just a cosmetic concern, in severe cases, cracked heels can become painful, bleed, or even lead to infection.

If you notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, or persistent pain), consult a healthcare provider promptly.

What Causes Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels are primarily caused by dry, thickened skin that loses elasticity and splits under pressure. Several factors contribute:

• Environmental exposure: Cold weather, low humidity, or hot showers strip the skin of moisture.
• Prolonged standing or walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Inadequate foot care, such as not moisturising or exfoliating regularly.
• Wearing open-back or ill-fitting shoes that increase pressure on the heels.
• Medical conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, eczema, psoriasis, and obesity can increase the risk.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Low intake of vitamins A, E, C, zinc, or omega-3 fatty acids impairs skin healing and elasticity.

Addressing the underlying cause, along with routine care, can prevent worsening and promote healing.

Symptoms of Cracked Heels

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Dry, rough, or flaky skin on the heels
• Visible cracks or fissures, sometimes deep
• Pain, especially when standing or walking
• Redness, bleeding, or itching
• Thickened calluses
• In severe cases, swelling, infection, or discharge

Top 5 Home Remedies for Cracked Feet

While severe cases may need medical treatment, mild-to-moderate cracked heels can often be managed at home using natural remedies:

1. Honey

Renowned for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, honey is a superb remedy for cracked feet. Apply raw honey directly to the affected areas, leave it on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. This natural humectant locks in moisture, promoting healing and preventing infection.

2. Shea Butter

Rich in vitamin E, A, and fatty acids, shea butter nourishes and repairs dry, cracked skin. Massage a generous amount of shea butter onto clean, dry feet before bedtime, allowing it to absorb overnight. Its fatty acids and vitamins deeply hydrate and soften the skin, reducing fissures and discomfort

3. Washing Feet Regularly

Proper hygiene is paramount in managing cracked feet. Wash your feet daily with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water, ensuring thorough drying, especially between the toes. This prevents the buildup of dirt, bacteria, and sweat, reducing the risk of infections and exacerbating cracks.

4. Coconut Oil

A natural emollient with antimicrobial properties, coconut oil soothes inflammation and improves skin hydration. Apply warm coconut oil after bathing and before bedtime.

5. Olive Oil

Olive oil, a staple in many kitchens, doubles as a potent remedy for cracked feet. Before bedtime, soak your feet in warm water mixed with a few drops of olive oil for 10-15 minutes, then gently exfoliate with a pumice stone to remove dead skin cells. Follow up by applying olive oil liberally and wearing clean socks overnight. Its antioxidants and vitamins repair and soften the skin, promoting healing and preventing recurrence.

Other Natural Remedies Worth Trying

1. Cocoa Butter

Effective for hydrating dry or inflamed skin, cocoa butter also provides mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

2. Castor Oil

A potent emollient, it penetrates deeply and softens hardened skin. Use at night with cotton socks for best results.

3. Oatmeal and Sea Salt Scrub

Exfoliates dead skin and improves circulation. Mix with water or oil to create a paste and use 2–3 times a week.

4. Lemon and Sugar Scrub

Acts as a natural exfoliant. Rub a lemon half dipped in sugar over heels for 3–5 minutes daily to remove rough patches.

5. Home Pedicure

Soaking feet in warm water mixed with milk and essential oils can soften skin. Follow with gentle scrubbing and moisturization for smooth heels.

Cracked Heels Treatment

For long-term improvement, follow these dermatologist-approved tips:

1. Use emollient or humectant moisturizers (e.g. urea, lactic acid, glycerin) twice daily.
2. Seal with an occlusive layer (e.g. petroleum jelly) at night to lock in moisture.
3. Wear cotton socks overnight after applying cream to enhance absorption.
4. Gently exfoliate thickened skin using a pumice stone or foot file after soaking.
5. Apply liquid bandages on deep fissures to prevent bleeding and support healing.
6. Stay hydrated and consume a balanced diet rich in skin-friendly nutrients (vitamin A, E, zinc, omega-3s).
7. Choose supportive, closed-heel footwear that reduces friction and distributes pressure evenly.

Cracked Heels Treatments In The Medical Field

See a podiatrist or dermatologist if:

• Home remedies fail to show improvement after 1–2 weeks
• Cracks become deep, painful, or bleed frequently
• Signs of infection develop (redness, pus, swelling, fever)
• You have diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or compromised immunity—small cracks can lead to serious infections

Medical treatments may include:

• Prescription-strength moisturizers (e.g. urea 20–40%)
• Debridement of thickened skin
• Antibiotic ointments if infection is present
• Custom orthotics or heel cups

Final Thoughts

Cracked heels are common but manageable with the right care. A consistent routine of moisturizing, exfoliation, and protective footwear can make a significant difference. Natural remedies like honey, coconut oil, and shea butter can support healing, but persistent or severe cases may need medical intervention—especially in people with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Your feet carry you every day—take care of them like they deserve.

References

• https://journals.lww.com/jism/fulltext/2023/11010/evaluation_of_efficacy_and_safety_of_amarantha.3.aspx
• https://www.wjpps.com/Wjpps_controller/abstract_id/22090
• https://ijrpas.com/HTMLPaper.aspx?Journal=International+Journal+of+Research+in+Pharmacy+and+Allied+Science%3BPID%3D2025-4-4-7
• https://ijshr.com/IJSHR_Vol.8_Issue.3_July2023/IJSHR43.pdf