Cracked Heels– A Common Winter Skin Problem
With the arrival of winter days, many people start having the problems of dry skin, dandruff, chapped lips and also cracked heels. However, the problem of cracked heels is very common and many people suffer from it. The foot lacks moisture and as a result, it is very easy for the skin to become dry and this ultimately causes cracked heels, especially during the winter days.
Main causes behind cracked heels in winter
- Lack of moisture
- Diseases such as diabetes, eczema , thyroid and circulatory problems
- Too much pressure on the foot due to standing and walking
- Cold dry weather
- Hot baths and showers
- Central heating
- Dehydration
- Insufficient intake of Zinc, vitamin E and essential omega 3 fatty acids
- Being overweight may also cause cracked heel.
Symptoms of cracked heels
- The skin around the heels will become thick and rough.
- Itching may happen due to dryness
- There will be signs of flaking skin
- At times bleeding may occur if cracks are deep
- Infection can happen in severe cases
Cracked heels can be easily cured or prevented so that you can enjoy soothing and soft heels throughout the year.
Proper foot care plan
- During the winter days, your skin needs extra moisture and so whenever you get the chance throughout the day; rub a good quality moisturizer into your heels and the soles of your feet. It is very important to apply some moisturizer before going to bed and wear a pair of cotton socks to retain the moisture throughout the night. Avoid wearing tight socks at night as it can disrupt the blood circulation.
- Go for a pedicure at least two times in a month. You can get a pedicure from a beauty salon or do it yourself at home. For a home pedicure you need soak your feet in warm soapy water for a few minutes, scrub it gently and then wash it again. Pat dry your feet with a clean towel and then with the help of foot file, gently file any rough callused areas. Finally massage your feet with a foot cream for a few minutes.
- At the same time regularly scrub your feet with a pumice stone to remove the dead skin cells. Once the dead skin cells are removed the skin around the feet will look better.
- During the winter days you need to protect your feet from the cold as direct exposure to cold weather can cause more dryness. So, before going out, wear socks and shoes.
- It is also important to wear shoes that are of exact size of your feet. Tight or loose shoes are not recommended. It is advisable to buy new shoes in the evening to get the right size. Also it is recommended to wear shoes that are resistant to water and wind.
- Once in a day massage the feet gently with the help of your finger tips. Try to put pressure on the points in order to improve the blood circulation. For massaging you can use coconut oil or olive oil.
If you have any questions feel free to contact us at 301-441-2655 or visit out website at www.renaissancefac.com
