What Causes Cracks on Heels and How to Treat Them

One potential cause of cracked heels can be diabetes.

Why Do Cracks Appear on Heels?

The primary cause is dry skin. The soles of our feet lack sebaceous glands and only have sweat glands, which means our feet require extra moisture.

When there isn’t enough hydration, the skin becomes dry and rough, developing thickened areas called calluses. Due to pressure while walking, the skin can split, resulting in cracks.

Several factors contribute to the formation of heel cracks:

1. Inadequate water intake leading to dehydration.
2. Washing feet with excessively hot water, which strips away the skin's protective layer, causing dryness and flaking.
3. Spending prolonged periods standing or walking.
4. Using harsh soaps that excessively dry the skin.
5. Neglecting to moisturize feet with creams or specialized oils.
6. Wearing uncomfortable shoes that squeeze or rub.
7. Living in cold climates where dry winter air and low temperatures negatively affect skin health.
8. Underlying health conditions such as:
   • Diabetes – elevated blood sugar can disrupt sweat gland function and skin hydration;
   • Obesity – increases pressure on the feet;
   • Vitamin deficiencies – impair skin cell regeneration;
   • Chronic skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis – cause irritation and dryness, promoting cracks;
   • Fungal infections – dry out the skin when fungi invade.

When to Consult a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

1. Cracks become red, painful, itchy, or start bleeding, indicating infection or worsening condition.
2. Standing or walking causes significant discomfort.
3. You have diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, vitamin deficiencies, or obesity, as home remedies might not fully resolve the issue.
4. Fungal infections appear on your feet or nails; self-treatment could spread the infection.
5. You maintain good foot care but the cracks persist or worsen.

A healthcare professional will conduct tests to identify any underlying diseases causing the cracks and recommend appropriate treatments and safe products.

How to Heal Cracked Heels at Home

These methods are effective for minor cracks that don’t cause severe pain or stem from medical conditions.

1. Exfoliate Dead Skin Cells

Wash your feet in warm water, then gently use a pumice stone or scrub to remove dead skin. Avoid aggressively scraping or cutting calluses, as this can worsen cracks and cause pain.

Start exfoliating 1–2 times per week, increasing frequency if tolerated. Stop if your skin becomes red or inflamed.

2. Apply Compresses or Masks

Natural remedies can soften and moisturize rough skin.

Coconut Oil
With antimicrobial properties, it helps retain moisture. Apply daily, let it absorb, then wear socks overnight. Alternatively, soak gauze in coconut oil, apply for 20–30 minutes, then wipe off gently.

Shea Butter
Rich in vitamins A and E, fatty acids, and antioxidants, it promotes skin healing. Use similarly to coconut oil.

Honey
Its antibacterial effects aid in crack healing. Massage honey onto clean skin, rinse with warm water after 15–20 minutes, and repeat multiple times weekly.

Banana Puree
Softens and nourishes skin while offering antifungal benefits. Apply before bedtime for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times per week.

3. Moisturize Thoroughly

After treatments, apply a rich foot cream to lock in moisture by forming a protective barrier. Petroleum jelly is an affordable and effective option. Apply on clean, dry skin, wear socks, and leave on overnight.

4. Wear Cotton Socks

Cotton allows feet to breathe and reduces sweating, helping retain moisture from creams and masks. Avoid synthetic socks that trap moisture and hinder healing.

5. Use Professional Products for Calluses and Cracks

Look for creams or gels containing urea, sugar isomerates, lactic, glycolic, or salicylic acids. These ingredients help remove dead skin and soften the epidermis.

Such keratolytic agents are available at pharmacies and should be applied 1–3 times daily, often with dressings for better results. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

6. Regularly Apply Liquid Bandages

Cracked heels can become inflamed or bleed if exposed to dirt and bacteria. Liquid bandages in spray form protect the area and promote healing.

Apply on clean, dry skin and reapply as the barrier wears off. These sprays are widely available over-the-counter, but consult a dermatologist or podiatrist first to avoid allergic reactions.

Can Cracks on Heels Be Prevented?

The key is consistent foot care, regular health check-ups, and monitoring for any signs of disease. Experts from WebMD recommend these daily habits:

1. Inspect feet regularly for inflammation, cuts, or wounds to address issues early and prevent infection.
2. Wash feet with warm water, but avoid prolonged soaking to prevent dryness.
3. Moisturize immediately after washing with creams or lotions.
4. Choose properly fitting shoes that don’t cause pressure.
5. Limit wearing open-heeled footwear like flip-flops, which expose skin to dirt and UV rays.
6. Rotate shoes daily to allow them to air out, reducing fungal infection risk.

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