What causes cracked heels?

The heel bears repeated pressure while walking. If the outer skin becomes very dry or builds up into a hard rim, it cannot stretch easily and may fissure. Open-backed shoes, prolonged standing, dry weather, hot showers and vigorous scrubbing can worsen the cycle. Extra pressure from body weight or foot shape may also make cracks more likely.

Scaling, peeling or itching around the feet can point to Athlete's Foot, which may contribute to fissures. Eczema, psoriasis, an underactive thyroid and diabetes can also affect skin dryness or healing. A clinician can help identify the cause when cracks keep returning.

After washing, pat the feet dry and apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp. A heel balm containing urea or another keratolytic ingredient may soften thick skin; follow its label and avoid applying it into a deep open split if it stings. Wear supportive, closed-back footwear and avoid walking barefoot on hard floors.

Do not cut the hard skin with a blade. Once the skin is not open or sore, gentle filing after bathing may reduce a thick edge. If fungal scaling is present, ask a pharmacist or clinician about appropriate treatment rather than using random creams.

Arrange medical advice if a fissure is deep, painful, bleeding, recurrent or not improving with regular moisturising. Seek prompt care for warmth, swelling, pus, spreading redness or fever. If you have diabetes, reduced sensation or poor circulation, have foot cracks checked early because small wounds can worsen without much pain.

Ask whether Athlete's Foot, eczema or another condition is contributing, which moisturiser is suitable, and how to protect a deep fissure while it heals.