What causes super dry, cracked heels?

Heel skin bears repeated pressure and can thicken, especially with open-backed shoes, prolonged standing, dry weather, or frequent hot washing. As the outer layer loses moisture, it becomes less able to stretch and may split. Dry Skin and Cracked Skin can be part of the picture. Scaling between the toes or on the sole may point toward Athlete's Foot rather than simple dryness.

Wash gently, pat dry, and apply a rich moisturiser soon afterward, concentrating on the heel while avoiding lotion between the toes if that area stays damp. A clinician may recommend Emollient Therapy or a product that softens thick skin. Wear supportive closed-back footwear and avoid cutting the cracks with blades. Once the skin is soft, gentle filing can reduce loose thickened skin; stop if it hurts or bleeds. Cover a painful fissure with a clean dressing.

Have deep, bleeding, very painful, recurrent, or infected-looking cracks assessed. Prompt care is needed for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or difficulty walking. People with diabetes, reduced foot sensation, poor circulation, or immune problems should seek advice early because a small fissure can become a more serious foot problem.

Is this ordinary Dry Skin, Athlete's Foot, eczema, or another cause? Which Emollient Therapy is suitable? Should I use a dressing or a softening ingredient? How can I protect my feet if cracks keep returning?