Vicks on cracked heels: what to know

Heel fissures form when thick, dry skin loses flexibility and splits under pressure. The cracks may sting, bleed or catch on fabric. Vicks can make the surface feel softer because it is occlusive, but its aromatic ingredients may irritate fissures and it does not address every cause of Cracked Skin.

Dry Skin, prolonged standing, open-backed footwear and hot washing can contribute. Scaling between the toes or on the sole may instead suggest Athlete's Foot, which needs antifungal care rather than a scented ointment.

After a short lukewarm wash, pat dry and apply a thick bland moisturiser or Emollient Therapy product while the skin is slightly damp. Cover with breathable socks overnight. Avoid cutting the hard skin with blades, aggressive filing, or applying fragranced products inside open cracks. Supportive closed shoes can reduce pressure; change them if they rub the heel.

Arrange medical advice for deep, bleeding, increasingly painful or non-healing cracks, or for pus, spreading redness, warmth or swelling. Seek earlier assessment if you have diabetes, poor circulation, eczema, psoriasis or reduced sensation. A clinician can distinguish a simple fissure from infection or a fungal condition and recommend targeted treatment.

Ask which moisturiser is appropriate, whether the cracks show infection or Athlete's Foot, and how to reduce pressure on the heels. Ask how often to review the skin if fissures keep returning and which products should be avoided on open areas.