How to Treat Cracked Heels at Home | Podiatrist Advice

How to Treat Cracked Heels at Home

Cracked heels are a very common foot problem and can range from mild dryness to painful deep cracks in the skin.

For many people, cracked heels develop gradually when dry skin builds up on the heel and eventually splits under pressure when walking or standing.

Luckily, most cases of cracked heels can be improved with the right foot care routine at home.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What causes cracked heels

• How to treat cracked heels at home

• The best creams and treatments to use

• When you should see a podiatrist

What Are Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels, sometimes called heel fissures, occur when the skin on the heel becomes very dry and thick.

Over time, pressure from standing and walking causes the skin to split.

Cracked heels often start as:

• Dry skin on the heel

• Thickened hard skin (callus)

• Small surface cracks

If left untreated, these cracks can become deeper and may cause discomfort or pain when walking.

What Causes Cracked Heels?

Several factors can contribute to cracked heels.

Common causes include:

Dry Skin

The skin on the heels naturally contains fewer oil glands, making it more prone to dryness.

Standing for Long Periods

Spending long hours on your feet increases pressure on the heels.

Open-Back Shoes

Sandals and flip-flops allow the heel to expand sideways, increasing the risk of cracking.

Hard Skin Build-Up

Excess callus around the heel can become dry and rigid, eventually splitting.

Dehydration

Not drinking enough fluids can contribute to dry skin throughout the body.

Medical Conditions

Certain health conditions may increase the risk of cracked heels, including:

• diabetes

• eczema

• psoriasis

• hypothyroidism

If cracked heels are severe or persistent, it may be worth speaking with a podiatrist.

How to Treat Cracked Heels at Home

In many cases, cracked heels can improve with consistent home care.

The key is to soften the skin, gently remove thick skin, and keep the area well moisturised.

1. Moisturise Your Heels Daily

One of the most important steps in treating cracked heels is regular moisturising.

Foot creams designed for dry skin often contain ingredients such as urea, which helps soften thick skin and improve hydration.

Apply a moisturising foot cream once or twice daily, focusing on the heel and surrounding dry areas.

For product recommendations, you can read our guide on the best, podiatrist reccomended foot creams here.

2. Use a Foot File to Remove Hard Skin

Gently filing thickened skin can help improve cracked heels.

Use a foot file or pumice stone to carefully remove excess hard skin. (Please don't use graters, electric files or anything too harsh!). Something simple like this is perfect -

Important tips:

• Be gentle and avoid over-filing

• Do not attempt to cut the skin yourself

• Stop if the area becomes sore or irritated

Regular gentle filing can help prevent further cracking.

3. Wear Supportive, Closed Shoes

Footwear plays a surprisingly important role in heel health.

Open-backed shoes can allow the heel to spread and worsen cracks.

Choosing supportive, closed shoes can help reduce pressure on the heel and allow the skin to heal.

4. Avoid Walking Barefoot

Walking barefoot can increase pressure on the heel and make cracked skin worse.

Wearing supportive footwear around the house may help protect the heels while they recover.

5. Use Heel Balms or Overnight Treatments

Some people find that applying a thicker moisturiser before bed helps improve dry heels.

You can apply foot cream and then wear cotton or bamboo socks overnight to help the moisturiser absorb into the skin.

This can be particularly helpful for more severe dryness.

How Long Do Cracked Heels Take to Heal?

Mild cracked heels often improve within one to two weeks with regular moisturising and proper foot care.

More severe cracks may take longer to heal, especially if thick skin has built up over time.

Consistency is key. Regular foot care helps prevent the problem from returning.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

While many cases of cracked heels can be managed at home, some situations require professional treatment.

You should consider seeing a podiatrist if:

• The cracks are deep or painful

• The skin is bleeding

• The area shows signs of infection

• Home treatments are not improving the condition

• You have diabetes or circulation problems

A podiatrist can safely remove thick skin and recommend appropriate treatments to help the skin heal.

Preventing Cracked Heels

Once your heels improve, maintaining good foot care habits can help prevent the problem from returning.

Helpful tips include:

• Moisturising your feet regularly

• Wearing supportive shoes

• Avoiding excessive pressure on the heels

• Keeping the skin hydrated

• Filing thick skin gently when needed

Developing a regular foot care routine at home can go a long way towards keeping your feet healthy.

If you’d like to learn more about everyday foot care, you can read our complete guide to foot care at home.

Final Thoughts

Cracked heels are a common and often preventable foot problem.

With the right care, most cases can improve with simple treatments at home, including moisturising,

gentle skin care and supportive footwear.

However, if cracked heels become painful or persistent, professional advice from a podiatrist may be needed.

Taking small steps to look after your feet now can help keep them healthy and comfortable in the long term.

Always consult your podiatrist for personalised foot care advice. Nothing in this blog post or on this website should be used as a substitute for medical advice.

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