How Best to Tackle Cracked Skin

Cracked skin is an issue that many people face, and there are a number of reasons why it can occur. Finding the best method to treat your cracked skin can often be a case of identifying the cause and then treating the problem appropriately.

Identifying Cracked Skin

Cracked skin is mainly a symptom of dry skin, and occurs when the skin becomes so rough and flaky that small tears begin to form due to lack of sufficient moisture and elasticity in the skin. These small tears grow bigger under stress (stretching and twisting that can occur from pressure or movement), becoming fissures that extend much deeper into the layers of the skin. Cracked skin can also be caused by cuts and grazes in the skin that have not healed properly; they harden rather than heal, and form the same fissures than can occur with dry skin.

Causes of Cracked Skin

The first step towards tackling your cracked skin is to eliminate the source. Whilst we’re not always able to prevent things such as cuts and scratches, there are actions that can be taken towards preventing dry skin on feet.

Seasonal Change

Cracked skin and heels are most closely associated with the winter months. This is because the cold dry weather draws moisture out of your skin all over your body, including your feet.

Baths

Long hot baths can also wash away the natural oils of your skin. These oils are essential for locking in moisture and preventing your skin from drying out and cracking. It’s advisable to opt for showers rather than baths, and limit these to a few minutes. You should also avoid rubbing your feet dry afterwards, as this can further remove natural oils; instead, pat your feet dry and then apply a moisturizer such as the Amopé™ Pedi Perfect™ Daily Moisturizer Foot Cream.

Harsh Soaps

It’s tempting to wash your feet vigorously and with harsh soaps, particularly when it’s necessary to combat foot odour, but just like hot water, soaps can strip the essential oils from your skin. Cracked skin can be avoided by making sure you treat your feet with care, and use products that help to preserve your skin’s natural protection.

Treating your Cracked Skin

If you suffer from cracked skin, you can help boost your body’s natural renewal and repair process by using a moisturizing cream such as the Amopé™ Daily Moisturizer Foot Cream. Apply the cream once or twice daily onto clean dry skin to keep your feet hydrated all day. It’s important to start your treatment as soon as possible, as cracked skin and heels are problems that can get worse and cause pain over time. Amopé™ moisturizing foot creams should not be used if the cracks in the heel are bleeding, inflamed or infected – advice should be sought from a healthcare professional in those cases. If irritation occurs whilst using this product, discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional. To prevent cracked skin conditions on your feet, it’s recommended to regularly remove hard skin and use a moisturizing cream.4

Don’t suffer, take our advice on how to prevent and treat cracked skin and keep your feet perfectly healthy.