Cracked heels: how do they form?

Cracks form where thick, dry skin has to move. The callused rim of the heel is pushed outwards with every step until it tears.

The explanation

Open footwear reinforces that: without a back, the heel pad can expand freely outwards, exactly the movement that bursts the rim open. That is why cracks are more common in summer than people expect.

Moisturising alone is usually not enough while that thick callused rim is still there; the cream does not reach far enough. Conversely, removing the rim without caring for the skin afterwards does not work either, because it dries out again.

The combination does work. First remove the hard edges and level the crack, then moisturise every evening with a urea cream. That gives the skin the chance to close instead of tearing open again and again.

Patty's advice

Do not walk barefoot on a hard floor all day at home. A slipper with a cushioned sole makes more difference than you think.

Read more about ingrown nail? See the treatment page or request an appointment straight away.