Not Just Dry Skin, Know the Causes of Cracked Heels

YOGYAKARTA - Many people think that the cause of cracked heels is just dry skin. In fact, this condition is often triggered by various daily habits and other factors that are rarely realized. Rough, thickened, cracked heels not only interfere with appearance, but can also cause pain when walking. By understanding the causes of cracked heels thoroughly, you can take the right treatment steps before the condition gets worse.

Cracked heels are a condition when the skin in the heel area loses excessive moisture until it becomes stiff, thick, and eventually forms cracks. These cracks can feel uncomfortable, even painful or bleeding if they are deep enough. This condition is common and often associated with reduced skin elasticity in the heel area.

The cause of cracked heels is not always as simple as dry skin. One factor that often escapes attention is excessive pressure on the heel due to standing for too long, especially on hard surfaces. This pressure makes the skin on the heel expand and crack more easily.

The use of open footwear such as sandals without heel pads is also a cause of cracked heels that are rarely realized. Heels that are constantly open lose moisture faster, so that the skin becomes dry and easily cracked.

The habit of taking a hot shower for too long or using soap with a hard content can remove the skin's natural oil. Without this natural protection, the heel skin becomes more rigid and prone to cracks. In addition, environmental factors such as cold and dry air also exacerbate the condition of the heel skin.

In some cases, certain health problems such as fungal infections of the feet, can also be a cause of cracked heels that do not improve even though they have been treated regularly.

Most cases of cracked heels can be treated with routine home care. You can soak your feet in warm water for about 15 to 20 minutes to help soften the skin. After that, rub your heels gently with a pumice stone or a dead skin remover.

Make sure your feet are properly dried, especially in the heel area. Next, use a thick moisturizing cream that is formulated for dry skin. Products with urea, alpha hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid can help moisturize and soften thickened skin. For optimal results, wear socks after applying moisturizer before going to bed.

If the crack on the heel feels painful, bleeds, or does not show improvement even though it has been routinely treated, you should consult a medical professional. Quoting WebMD, Wednesday, January 14, further examination is needed to ensure that there is no infection or certain medical conditions that aggravate the cause of cracked heels.

The cause of cracked heels is not always related to dry skin alone. Daily habits, footwear selection, to certain health conditions can play a big role in the emergence of this problem. By recognizing the causes of cracked heels early on and performing the right treatment, you can keep your heels healthy, comfortable, and free of pain.