Dry skin on the heels of your feet

The underside and edges of the heel are exposed to repeated loading while standing and walking. Dry air, hot water, open shoes, and soap can add to the problem, leaving scale or fissures. Itch, redness, or plaques on other areas can occur with Atopic Dermatitis, Asteatotic Eczema, or Psoriasis. A clinician can examine the pattern and check whether footwear, irritation, or inflammation is maintaining the dryness.

Clean the feet with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, then pat dry rather than rubbing. Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser to the heels while the skin is damp and wear clean socks afterward. Use shoes that cushion the heel and limit rubbing. Avoid cutting callused skin or using strong acids on cracks without advice. Emollient Therapy can be discussed when the barrier remains rough or split.

Book an assessment for deep, bleeding, recurrent, or non-healing fissures. Prompt care is needed for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, or pain that interferes with walking. If you have diabetes, numbness, or circulation concerns, ask for advice early rather than treating a foot wound yourself.

Could my heel changes be eczema, psoriasis, or contact irritation? Which emollient should I use, and how often? Do I need a dressing for a crack, and could my footwear or work routine be contributing?