Summer might not be over yet, but autumn is right around the corner. With the change in seasons comes drier weather and skin. Having dry, cracked heels might be a minor annoyance you can try to shrug off and treat with body lotion. But if left untreated, your heel fissures can lead to infection. So, how can you beat itchy, irritated heels? Here are our top tips!

Moisturize

It’s no surprise that the top trick for dry heels is moisturizing. If you have cracked heels, you may be doing this already. But making sure you’re using the right moisturizer and using it often enough is key. Look for a thick moisturizer. Some contain ingredients like salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid that moisturize the skin generously while removing dead skin cells. Once you have your perfect moisturizer, apply it at least twice a day to your feet, focusing on your heels. Did you know lotions have an expiration date? Keep an eye on that.

Soak

Give your feet some extra love and attention by soaking them. Fill your tub to ankle level with warm water, then let your feet rest for 10 to 15 minutes. You can add Epsom salts or soap for added benefits. After your soak, dry your feet well and apply lotion.

Scrub

Using a loofah or pumice stone to help remove dead skin is a great way to combat your cracked heels. Always be gentle and use it in the shower.

Treat

Are the above tips not working? Try using a heavier moisturizer that’s oil-based or contains petroleum jelly. Apply to your heels at night, then slip on some comfy socks to help the treatment soak in even more.

If you’re dealing with dry, cracked, irritated heels that don’t seem to improve with home treatments, it’s best to contact your podiatrist.

Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and the rest of the staff at Syracuse Podiatry in East Syracuse, New York, can help treat and care for your feet. Call us at 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online to get help today.