Key takeaways
- Heels crack when thick skin dries out.
- Open-backed shoes and dry air make it worse.
- Moisturisers with urea help most.
- Wear socks after moisturising.
- Deep or bleeding cracks need a doctor.
Cracked heels are one of the most common foot complaints, and they can make you hide your feet in summer. The good news: a few consistent habits make a big difference.
Morning
Hydrate inside and out
Drink water and apply a light moisturiser to your heels before putting on socks. Take AppaNail as directed on the label.
Choose closed-back shoes
Supportive shoes with a closed heel stop the heel pad from spreading and cracking.
During the day
Avoid long standing on hard floors
If you stand for work, use cushioned insoles or mats.
Keep feet dry
Change damp socks and dry between your toes.
Eat for skin
Healthy fats, vitamin C-rich fruit and plenty of water support skin.
Evening
Soak and smooth
Soak feet in lukewarm water for 10 minutes, then gently use a pumice stone on rough areas.
Moisturise thickly
Apply a thick cream with urea, lactic acid or salicylic acid to the heels.
Wear cotton socks
Socks overnight help the moisturiser soak in.
Heel care do's and don'ts
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use urea or lactic acid creams | Use razors or blades on hard skin |
| Wear closed-back shoes | Live in flip-flops |
| Use lukewarm water | Take long, very hot showers |
| Exfoliate gently | Scrub aggressively |
| See a doctor for deep cracks | Ignore bleeding or infection |
Where supplements fit in
Topical care works on the surface; nutrition works underneath. AppaNail provides vitamin D, vitamin C and 15 more ingredients to support soft skin, healthy cuticles and strong nails from within.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology – "How to treat cracked heels."
- American Podiatric Medical Association – "Heel fissures."
- Cleveland Clinic – "Cracked heels."
Common questions
What causes cracked heels?
Dry, thick skin on the heel splitting under pressure, often worsened by dry air, open-backed shoes and long standing.
What is the best cream for cracked heels?
Thick creams containing urea, lactic acid or salicylic acid are often recommended.
How do I take AppaNail?
Follow the directions on the AppaNail label; each bottle contains 30 capsules.