Cracked Heel Repair
More than overexposure to harsh elements or the lack of moisturizing, what cracked heels imply is a lack of adequate foot care. Cracked heels or heel fissures occur due to two reasons: lack of moisture in the skin on your heels and excessive pressure on the feet pads causing it to expand sideways. Other than this, heel fissures can also result from a deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids. If one’s skin is naturally dry and lacking in moisture, heel fissures can be quite a problem to deal with. Though cracked heels are not harmful, the condition worsens if not treated appropriately and soon one starts to experience pain, especially while walking. In severe cases, you may see discharge of blood through the cracks. Hence, needless to say, it is best to treat this condition quickly and appropriately.
There are products sold over the counter that help you heal heel fissures. However, the fact remains that there are several home remedies you could stick to, in order to get rid of heel fissures much more quickly and effectively. Hydrogenated vegetable oil is often recommended as an effective remedy. Apply it generously all over the cracks to form a thick coating and then wear a pair of soft socks. Leave it on overnight. Repeat this treatment regularly and within a week you will see definite improvement. Another excellent remedy, especially for severe cases of heel fissures, is a mixture of melted paraffin wax and a few drops of coconut oil. Fill the gaps in your feet with this mixture and leave it on for at least a couple of hours after wearing socks. This treatment visibly reduces the cracks within a week’s time. Even massaging your feet gently with just coconut oil before going to bed each night is known to be excellent for cracked heels. You could also use lemon juice to help heal the fissures. Soak your feet in a tub filled with warm water and three tablespoons of lemon juice for about fifteen minutes. Repeat this regularly for at least a couple of weeks. Another concoction helpful for cracked heels is a mixture of glycerin and rosewater. This mixture when applied on to the heels immediately soothes the feet and skin cells on the heels.
Daily care for your feet is an absolute must. Clean your feet using lukewarm soapy water. Keep your feet immersed in water for at least fifteen minutes and then rinse and gently pat dry. Follow this up with an application of a gentle moisturizing cream on the heels. Instead of a moisturizer, one could also use a mixture of petroleum jelly with a few drops of lemon juice.
