How long does emollient therapy take to work for cracked heels?

Heel fissures form when dry, thickened skin loses flexibility and splits under pressure. An emollient helps restore softness and flexibility, so discomfort may ease before the visible fissure closes. A crack that reaches deeper layers, catches on clothing or opens with each step may heal more slowly. Standing, barefoot walking and open-backed footwear can keep the heel under strain.

Apply the recommended emollient after washing and drying, paying attention to the heel rim and avoiding slippery residue on the soles before walking. Covering a fissure with a suitable dressing can reduce rubbing if a clinician or pharmacist advises it. Choose supportive, closed shoes and avoid picking loose skin. Do not apply products to a bleeding or infected-looking crack without professional advice. Read more about Emollient Therapy.

Seek assessment if a crack is deep, bleeding, increasingly painful, warm, swollen or draining, or if redness spreads around it. Get advice sooner when diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation or a history of slow-healing foot wounds is present.

Ask whether the fissures are caused only by dryness or whether eczema, psoriasis, fungal infection or pressure is contributing. Ask how to protect an open crack and which treatment is suitable if regular emollient use has not improved the skin.