If you see cracks on your heels, you probably assume it’s because of dehydration or lack of moisture in your skin. However, in some cases, there could be other reasons why your skin is dry and peeling on your heels.
Bright Side put together 6 unobvious reasons why you may be getting cracks on your heels. And at the end of the article, you’ll find out about a foot soak that can help you get rid of this problem quickly.
5. Extra weight
Why:
How to fix it:
You can calculate your ideal weight here — always keep it within the “normal” range. Also, take into account that diabetics tend to have cracked heels, so check your blood sugar level regularly.
4. Lack of vitamins.
Why:
Without some vital vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, your skin just can’t function properly and becomes dry and thick.
How to fix it:
Add more foods rich in vitamins A, B3, C, E, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet.
3. Wrong shoes
Why:
Open-back shoes like flip-flops or sandals usually allow fat under your heel to expand sideways and increase the possibility of cracks on your heels. Ill-fitting shoes and thin soles can also give you cracked heels and heel pain.
How to fix it:
Wear shoes with a closed heel that give you the proper support. You can also talk to a podiatrist to make sure that your shoes are the right size.
2. Menopause
Why:
How to fix it:
To get rid of cracks on your heels, you can try applying estrogen ointments topically, but don’t forget to consult your doctor first.
1. Standing for too long
Why:
Standing for a long period of time, especially on hard or wooden floors, can put additional pressure on your heels and stress on the skin in this area.
How to fix it:
Try to avoid standing for too long. If that’s not possible, do some simple exercises to redistribute the pressure from your heels from time to time.
