When should you see a doctor about cracked skin?

Cracks form when the skin barrier loses flexibility and splits. Atopic dermatitis and hand eczema can cause dryness, inflammation and painful fissures. Cracked heels are often concentrated around thickened heel skin, while psoriasis may create sharply defined scaly areas that split. The site and accompanying rash help guide diagnosis.

Wash with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, pat dry, and apply a thick bland moisturiser soon afterwards. Reapply after handwashing, wear protective gloves for wet or chemical work, and avoid picking loose skin. Emollient therapy may be discussed when barrier repair is difficult or symptoms keep returning.

Arrange prompt care if a crack becomes warmer, redder, more swollen, increasingly painful, or starts draining pus. Seek urgent assessment for fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, or a wound that will not stop bleeding. People with reduced sensation or circulation should have foot cracks checked early.

Ask which condition best explains the pattern, how often to moisturise, whether a medicated treatment is needed, and how to protect the area at work or during bathing. Mention soaps, solvents, footwear, new products and any previous episodes.