Welcoming winter means, dry and peeling skin, cold air burns and need for extra mosituriser. As the hand and foot tend to get a little rough, chances of skin breaking is natural. But when it comes to the heel, the damage might be a little more as it is prone to getting cracks, especially during the cold weather. Let’s check out a few tips on how we can care for them better.
1. Soak your feet and exfoliate them
The skin at the base of your feet is thicker and tend to get drier than the rest of your body. Therefore, is likely to crack when some pressure is applied. Soaking and exfoliating them is the best way to get rid of the dead skin that has accumulated around your heel. Steps to do them right:
Step 1: Add soap or shower gel to lukewarm water in a tub or bucket and soak your heel in it for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 2: Use a foot scrubber, loofah, or pumice stone to exfoliate and remove any thick or hard skin.
Step 3: Then pat them dry gently.
Step 4: Apply a thick moisturiser or heel balm.
Tip: To lock in the moisture, apply petroleum jelly and wear socks.
2. Use honey on the affected area
Honey is known as a natural remedy for treating cracked heel. It has the properties to cleanse, heal wounds and nourish your skin. You can use it to exfoliate your feet once you soak them. It can also be applied as an overnight foot mask. Since it has antibacterial and antiseptic properties, it helps to remove the dead skin gently while keeping them nourished for a longer time.
3. Wear comfortable and closed footwear
Wearing tight shoes can often lead to fungal infections and sweaty feet. Also, footwear that does not cover the back of your foot properly is the reason for cracked heel. It is therefore suggested to wear any sandal or shoes that provide a little breathing space. You can always opt for a good pair of sneakers and also make sure to wear comfortable socks underneath.
4. Don’t shave or peel calluses
If you notice that your heels have started to harden with layers of dry skin, it becomes difficult to resist not to pick at them. But, that is something you should avoid, considering the health of your feet. Don’t try to peel off the dead skin or try to shave them as it will lead to some serious infections. Seeking a doctor would be recommended here since they know how to treat them in a neat and clean environment with sterilised instruments.
5. Wear cotton socks for the rescue
Walking barefoot especially during winters can lead to even more dry skin and often attracts dirt and bacteria. It is always good to keep your feet protected from all the pollution and dust by wearing good quality cotton socks. That will easily help breathe while protecting them from the external factors. Also, wearing socks after moisturising your leg will ensure that it stays nourished for a longer time.
6. Keep them moisturised always
Just like your face and body, your feet need to stay moisturised as well. Make sure that you apply a foot care cream after a shower and before you go to bed to keep them healthy. If your base tends to dry out quickly, make sure you care for them on a constant basis. Foot creams are suggested over regular lotions since they contain necessary ingredients that prevent the cracking of heel and keep it treated.
7. Massage with coconut oil and turmeric
Our feet are devoid of oil glands and therefore tend to dry out quicker than the rest of our body. Massage them in a circular motion, with a mixture of turmeric and coconut oil, especially on the cracked heel. This will moisturise your cracks and reduce any pain or swelling that has been caused by it. The oil will add intense moisture and turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help protect.
Follow these simple methods to treat that cracked heel and you’ll be left with soft feet that are ready for flaunting this winter!
I will try this out for sure!