Don’t Let Dry, Cracked Heels Ruin Your Holidays: A Podiatrist’s Guide

Each winter, millions of Americans experience dry skin. It commonly affects the hands and feet, especially the heels. Cooler temps, long days of standing, and seasonal activities like travel make it harder to keep your skin moisturized, but doing so is essential. 

Although the issue is often mostly cosmetic, if you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation to your feet, cracked heels may increase the risk of sores, open wounds, and infection. Addressing the issue early is an important part of diabetic foot care.

At The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, podiatrist Angelo Morreale, DPM, can work with you to manage dry, cracked heels. Read on to learn why this happens, the potential risks of ignoring it, and how to address the issue successfully at home.

Why do heels get dry and cracked during the winter?

There are several reasons you’re more likely to get dry, cracked heels during the winter. The main one is the temperature. Even though we don’t get much snow here in Louisiana, the cooler weather can quickly dry out your skin. At the same time, many people run their heaters this time of year, which draws out even more moisture.

Beyond the climate, many people spend more time on their feet during the holidays due to shopping, travel, and other seasonal activities. This means more standing and walking, which can cause friction, making the skin on the heels thick and rough.

If you have diabetes, eczema, or any other skin- or circulation-affecting medical condition, your heels may dry out even further, worsening the issue and making you susceptible to more serious problems, like open wounds and infection.

What happens if you ignore dry, cracked heels?

Dry, cracked heels may not seem like that big of a deal, but it’s important to address the problem as soon as you notice it. If you don’t, you’re more likely to experience other side effects, including:

• Open wounds that bleed
• Difficulty walking
• Increased bacterial exposure
• Problems wearing shoes and socks

Without prompt treatment, cracked heels may become infected and may require professional wound care. If you’re immunocompromised, you’re at greater risk of severe complications, such as gangrene (tissue death) or amputation.

Podiatrist-recommended remedies for dry, cracked heels

The good news is that home remedies can often prevent the problem from worsening and keep your feet healthy. Depending on your symptoms and their severity, we may recommend:

Soaking your feet

Soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes daily, even if you’ve already bathed. This regular practice can prevent your skin from drying out and help loosen dead skin, so it can be gently removed. Using a pumice stone after a soak makes it easier to safely remove this skin.

Applying a moisturizer

Before putting on socks and shoes each day, apply a moisturizer containing urea, lactic acid, or salicylic acid to your skin. These ingredients help lock in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out.

Drinking plenty of fluids

Try to drink water throughout the day — pale yellow or clear urine is a sign that you’re staying well-hydrated. We also recommend running a humidifier indoors wherever you spend the most time (i.e., living space, home office, bedroom) to keep the air moist. 

Wearing shoes and socks

It can be tempting to walk around barefoot, especially at home, but this can make dry heels worse. Wear supportive, closed-back shoes and warm cotton socks whenever possible.

Struggling with dry, cracked heels? 

Most cases of dry, cracked heels improve with the above at-home treatments, but if you have deep cracks, signs of infection, or severe pain, expert, specialized care may be necessary. 

To schedule a visit with Dr. Morreale at The Foot Institute, call your nearest office in Shreveport or Natchitoches, Louisiana, today.