How to deal with cracked skin around the heels?
Cracked heels which are medically called heel fissures never look good, could be a real hassle but as they may sometimes lead to more serious issues if they are not dealt with you should take them seriously. They are more common in all those who have dry skin, are overweight and use shoes with an open heel. The ideal way to address them is simply giving the feet a little more attention by starting with a hydrating ointment on them at least two times a day to begin with for the dry skin. Once a day after it has improved will probably be sufficient. Seek out skin lotions or balms that have a thicker consistency. Some of them contain skin-softening agents, which include urea and salicylic acid which may help clear away dead skin.
If the cracked heels aren't improved with that regular use of the cream, then see a podiatrist. They will likely take away the thicker dead skin and after that if you make use of the ointment repeatedly after that, then that should help ensure that is stays manageable. You might like to give your feet a little bit more attention before you go to bed by soaking the feet for approximately 10 minutes in plain or soapy water. Just after drying the feet then gently rub your heels with a foot file or something like that that can help take away the dry skin. Apply a heavier, oil-based lotion and after that cover with a pair of thin cotton socks or silicone gel heel cup at bedtime to help the moisturizing lotion work. In addition try and target the risk factors for the cracked heels. Losing weight over the long term may help and try and avoid using footwear that are open in the heel region.
Most importantly, you should not ignore the dry cracked heels since you may develop deeper fissures in the dermis which usually raise your probability of an infection. If the above self care steps don't help, talk with your podiatrist concerning other treatment options you could have.