Cracked heels in winter: what to know

The thick skin around the heel has to flex as you stand and walk. When it loses moisture, it becomes less supple and can split along areas of pressure. Open-backed footwear, long hot showers, harsh cleansers and friction may add to the problem. Itching, scaling between the toes or on the sole can also point toward Athlete's Foot rather than winter dryness alone.

Small fissures may sting when they meet water or footwear. The appearance of [Dry Skin](/symptoms/dry-skin/) and [Cracked Skin](/symptoms/skin-cracking/) can overlap, so the surrounding skin and the pattern of symptoms matter.

Wash with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, then pat the feet dry, including between the toes. Apply a thick moisturiser to the heel while the skin is still slightly damp; [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) can help restore softness. Cover the heel with socks and choose shoes that support the foot without rubbing. Avoid cutting thick skin with blades or picking at fissures. If you use a foot file, use light pressure on intact skin and stop if the area feels tender or raw.

Arrange a clinical assessment if a crack is deep, bleeding, increasingly sore, warm, swollen or producing discharge. Seek prompt advice when redness is spreading, walking becomes difficult, or you have diabetes, reduced sensation or poor circulation. A clinician can check for infection, eczema or fungal skin disease and tailor treatment.

Could this be winter dryness, eczema or Athlete's Foot? Which moisturiser is suitable for my skin? Should I avoid any footwear or bathing habits while the fissure heals?