Dry and Cracked Heels on Your Feet

Heel skin is exposed to body weight, walking, standing, and pressure from open-backed shoes. When the outer layer becomes dry and thick, it may split at the edge of the heel. The fissures can catch on fabric, sting, or bleed if they extend deeper.

Scaling, itch, or peeling elsewhere on the foot may point to Athlete's Foot rather than dryness alone. A recurring rash, marked inflammation, or similar patches on other areas can suggest eczema or another skin condition. The appearance and location help a clinician decide whether infection, inflammation, pressure, or a mixture is involved.

Wash gently, dry carefully between the toes, and apply a rich moisturiser to the heels while the skin is slightly damp. Cover fissures with a clean dressing if they catch or rub. Choose closed, well-fitting shoes that support the heel, and avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces while cracks are tender.

Do not cut thick skin with blades or aggressively file a painful fissure. A clinician or foot-care professional can advise on safe removal of excess hard skin and recommend emollient therapy when routine moisturising is not enough.

Arrange an assessment for deep cracks, repeated bleeding, significant pain, spreading redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, or difficulty walking. Seek prompt advice if you have diabetes, reduced sensation, poor circulation, or another condition that may slow wound healing. A foot rash that persists despite basic care also deserves a diagnosis.

Ask whether the fissures are caused mainly by dryness and pressure or whether a fungal or inflammatory condition is present. Ask which moisturiser, dressing, footwear changes, and safe filing method suit your skin, and how to monitor a crack that is not closing.