how to heal cracked heels

  following steps may help treat cracked heels: heal cracked heels

1. Using an emollient or humectant moisturizer

Emollients penetrate the skin and reduce water loss. They fill the gaps between skin flakes, which makes the skin feel smooth, soft, and flexible. They help to reduce water loss in the skin.

Humectants penetrate the outer skin layer, attract water from the air, and maintain moisture. They also help to increase the water capacity of the skin.

In dry conditions, humectants may draw moisture from the lower skin layers instead of from the atmosphere. This may result in more dehydrated skin overall. Combining a humectant with an occlusive may help seal in moisture.

2. Applying an occlusive moisturizer over the top

Once the emollient or humectant is absorbed, people can apply a thick layer of an occlusive moisturizer over the top just before bed to seal the moisture in.

Occlusive moisturizers coat the skin in a thin film that prevents moisture evaporating from the outermost layer of the skin.

Examples of occlusive moisturizers include:

• petroleum jelly
• lanolin
• mineral oil
• silicones, such as dimethicone