Dry, hard or cracked skin on the feet is one of the most common complaints, and one of the easiest to improve. Heels in particular take a lot of pressure and dry out quickly. With a little regular care most feet can be kept soft and comfortable. Here is how.
Why Does the Skin on Your Feet Get Hard and Dry?
Foot skin, especially on the heels, is under constant pressure and has fewer oil glands than skin elsewhere, so it dries and thickens easily. Standing for long periods, open-backed shoes and simply not moisturising all add to it. It is normal, and it responds well to a bit of attention.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Feet Soft
A few habits keep foot skin supple:
- Moisturise daily, focusing on the heels and soles, but not between the toes
- Gently exfoliate mild hard skin with a foot file on dry skin
- Drink enough water and keep the rest of your skin hydrated too
- Wear supportive, well-fitting shoes and avoid going barefoot on hard floors
- Change socks daily and keep feet clean and dry
Done regularly, this keeps most feet comfortable.
When Hard Skin and Corns Need a Podiatrist
Home care handles mild dryness, but thicker callus, corns and deep cracked heels are better dealt with by a podiatrist, who can reduce them safely and painlessly as part of our foot care service. Avoid blades and strong over-the-counter corn removers at home, particularly if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
When to Get Cracked Heels Checked
Most cracked heels improve with moisturising, but deep, painful cracks, or any that are not healing or look infected, are worth having treated. Left alone they can be uncomfortable and occasionally let in infection.
At Advanced Footcare Group we treat hard skin, corns and cracked heels, and advise on keeping your feet soft between visits.
For comfortable, healthy feet, call 01306 883 332 or book an appointment.
Frequently asked questions.
Why do my feet get so dry and hard?
The skin on the feet, especially the heels, is under constant pressure and has fewer oil glands than skin elsewhere, so it dries out and thickens easily. Footwear, standing for long periods and simply not moisturising all contribute. It is very common and usually easy to improve.
How do I get rid of hard skin on my feet?
Regular moisturising and gentle exfoliation help with mild hard skin. Thicker callus and corns are better reduced by a podiatrist, who can do it safely and painlessly. Avoid blades and strong corn removers at home, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Are cracked heels a problem?
Cracked heels are common and often just uncomfortable, but deep cracks can be painful and can occasionally let in infection. Keeping the skin moisturised usually prevents them. If cracks are deep, painful or not healing, it is worth having them treated.