Treatment and Prevention of Cracked Heels (also known as heel fissures)

Cracked heels are a very common problem

The skin on the bottom of our feet is significantly thicker than other parts of our body and is prone to an ailment known as cracked heels or heal fissures. In an average lifetime we will walk 115,000 miles a distance equal to 4.5 laps around the globe. We take our feet for granted and often neglect regular foot care. Also known as heel fissures, cracked heels are quite common. While people everywhere are affected those who: live in dry climates, are moderately to severely obese, consistently go barefoot or wear sandals tend to experience it more often.

It is important to heal cracked heels at the first sign of their appearance. If left untreated they develop into painful deep cracks. They may also bleed and become infected. Cracked heels can be embarrassing. They are not pretty to look at and can result in our limiting our spring and summer activities to avoid them being seen. Another problem that women sufferers of cracked heels experience is repeated damage to expensive hosiery when the rough edges cause snagging. The bottom line is that cracked heels are an expense, they are annoying and can be a potential health risk. So what can be done about it?

The most important step in treating and preventing cracked heels is to establish a regular morning and evening regimen of cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing. In the morning cleanse your feet with an antibacterial soap then exfoliate them using something like a natural fiber washcloth such as an ayate washcloth or a pumice stone. Dry your feet well then apply a deep penetrating foot balm to the effected areas. When possible don a pair of 100% cotton socks for the day. In the evening before you are ready to go to bed create two foot baths: one cool and one warm. In each basin of cool and warm water add a little antibacterial soap. Alternate soaks in the warm and cool water baths for 10 to 15 minutes. Dry your feet well and again, apply a deep penetrating foot balm. Wrap your heels in gauze and put on a pair of 100% cotton socks. Perform this morning and evening routine for about 5 days. When the cracks have healed and your heels are once again smooth to the touch, transition to a preventative regimen of cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing twice a week.

At Black Pearl Botanicals LLC, we sell a nail hand and foot balm an all-natural formula designed to help soften and moisturize. Some of the key active ingredients include: emu oil, neem oil, hempseed oil, shea butter, essential oils of myrrh, patchouli and lavender. Black Pearl Botanicals offers a selection of other foot-care products including recovery foot soak, rejuvenation foot, hand and body scrub and a natural fiber ayate washcloth. Visit us on line at http://www.blackpearlbotanicals.com to learn more.