Ointment for dry heels. Effective ointment for cracked heels. Contraindications and side effects of using ointments for cracks

Hello dear readers. Cracked heels are not only unsightly, but also painful. The problem can overtake us regardless of gender and age. It becomes especially widespread in spring. summer period, when most people wear flip-flops and potter around the countryside. It is almost impossible to get rid of cracks instantly and often they become chronic, painful and can even bleed. Folk remedies for combating this disease are practically passed down from generation to generation. Today we will look at one of the means for the successful treatment of this skin disease - ointment.

In the summer we all want to make our own since we wear open shoes. But the most important thing is to know the reasons why cracked heels occur in order to prevent their further occurrence.

Cracked heels - what are the reasons?

The causes of this disease can be associated both with external factors and with more serious problems of the body.

External factors include:

Walking on the ground or sand for a long time without shoes.
Dry air.
Tight shoes.
Wearing synthetics.
Tight shoes.
Lack of regular hygiene care, or proper care.
Reaction to hygiene products.
High load during the day, work on your feet.
Too intensive peeling care.

All factors are determined by the peculiarities of the skin of the heels. This part of the koi bears a large load from our weight. Therefore, the cells quickly become deformed and die.

This leads to peeling and dryness, and in the future can cause cracks. Therefore, the main part of the fight against cracks in this case is softening the skin, removing dead cells; hydration.

The second aspect is the lack of vitamins. Then the treatment must include taking a vitamin complex.

Internal diseases

The third aspect is serious illness.

Skin diseases.
Diabetes mellitus and other diseases associated with metabolic disorders.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Anemia.

Before you begin treating cracks, you should consult a doctor. If you have a more serious disease, then you need to treat not only the cracks, but also the root cause of the disease.

Ointment for cracked heels - how to use

The modern cosmetology industry provides a lot of products for the treatment of cracks. But we will consider budgetary and affordable, and most importantly, time-tested means.

Zinc ointment

This remedy is intended to relieve inflammation and treat fungus. It eliminates dryness and flaking of the skin. It also has antiseptic properties and perfectly fights unpleasant odors.

The ointment should be rubbed in morning and evening using massaging movements. It should be absorbed, so do not apply a thick layer. Feet should be dry and clean. It is better to apply the ointment after a previous foot bath.

Salicylic ointment

It has a wider range of applications than zinc. This remedy is used to treat psoriasis, comedones, burns, eczema and fungi. The ointment is an excellent antiseptic.

Therefore, it forms the basis of a healing remedy for healing heel cracks. The recipe is quite simple. Mix salicylic acid, paraffin and beeswax. Proportions 1/1/1.

Melt the mixture. When the mixture becomes warm, apply it to the cracks using a cotton swab. Let it dry completely. Repeat the procedure about 4-5 times. Then apply a bandage. After a few hours, remove the bandage and wash your leg in water with soap and soda. Dry your feet. Apply rich cream.

Cream Zorka

Another not very pharmaceutical, but very popular remedy is Zorka cream. The composition itself is designed to care for the cow's udder. It heals cracks, softens the skin, and eliminates dryness. It is also suitable for heels.

Before the procedure, steam your feet, but not in hot water, but in warm water. Dry with a towel. Apply the cream to your feet. Leave for a couple of tens of minutes to absorb. At this time, it is better to refrain from walking.

Then put on cotton socks. So go to bed. In the morning, your feet can be steamed again and treated with pumice. But remember, the cream has a rather pungent odor.

Balsamed

The product contains lactic acid, which softens the skin, as well as a mixture of oils that moisturize and nourish. But the product should not be used if the skin is injured to the point of an open wound.

Doctor Biocon

The product includes a mixture of oils that promote healing of the skin of the feet.

Radevit

This is an excellent solution if the cracks were caused precisely by a vitamin deficiency. The ointment is widely used to treat skin diseases and contains a large amount of nutrients that promote skin healing.

Doctor

This is a cream that is designed to remove dead skin cells of the epidermis. It contains urea and components that enhance its effect. The cream will relieve the unpleasant sensation of itching. It will soften the skin, relieve pain, and help the skin recover faster. Take a foot bath a couple of hours before bed.

Then dry your feet with a towel and apply cream. To get the best effect, wrap your feet in cling film and secure them on top with socks. Leave it on all night. In the morning, wash your feet and you can clean them with a pumice stone.

Gewol

This cream is significantly different from the above products. Its action is aimed specifically at normalizing the natural protective border of the skin.

Violation of this balance leads to dryness and cracks. Skin elasticity increases. The cream is applied to steamed legs once a day.

Zazhivin 911

The gel not only disinfects the affected area, but also promotes its regeneration. Has proven itself well for the treatment of abrasions. The gel contains natural oils. Apply the gel to dry and clean feet. Leave for a couple of tens of minutes for the gel to be absorbed. Afterwards you should put on cotton socks.

Fulex

Fulex is a cream with a broader action. It is used to care for feet, combat excessive sweating, and treat corns and cracks. The drug cannot boast of a budget price, but it is rich in natural composition. The cream should be applied twice a day.

Flexitol balm

Suitable for very dry and cracked skin of the feet and heels, suitable for rough heels. It contains 25% urea, vitamin E and Shea butter, and does not contain parabens. Made in Great Britain.

Choose a cream or ointment to treat heels, the main thing is that the product suits you in price and properties. By the way, when combined together, they have a healing effect.

In just a couple of weeks, it will help solve the problem of cracks, and the treatment result will last about the same time, but it is better to use it for preventive purposes.

Important to remember! All creams and ointments that contain acid help soften the skin. But, too frequent use of such an ointment or peeling,

may cause harm and make the situation worse. Therefore, spend more time nourishing your skin rather than cleansing it.

Homemade cream for cracked heels - 7 recipes

Folk remedies have one undeniable advantage - effectiveness, which has been proven over generations. At home, you can try several recipes at minimal cost and choose the one that works best for you.

Folk remedies and homemade ointment for cracked heels

1. Wax ointment. Fry the onion in vegetable oil. Afterwards, strain the oil. Mix 250 milliliters of oil with 100 grams of wax. And add a pea of propolis.

Place on the fire and bring to a boil. After the wax has dissolved, let it simmer for a couple more minutes. Then remove from heat, pour into a vessel and let cool and thicken. The ointment is ready.

2. Egg ointment. Separate the yolk from the white. Add 5 milliliters of vinegar and 15 milliliters of oil to the yolk. Mix everything.

Apply to feet, secure with film and socks. In the morning, wash your feet and apply a rich cream.

3. Fat based. You will need to pour boiling water over a collection of chamomile and celandine herbs. Melt 50 milliliters of badger fat. Then add 30 grams of the collection. Boil the mixture for half an hour. Then remove from the stove, let cool and carefully separate the herbs by grinding.

4. Onion ointment. Peel and chop a couple of medium onions. Fry them in a frying pan with 250 milliliters of unrefined sunflower oil until the onions turn brown.

Then strain the mixture and while the oil is hot, add a little beeswax. Mix, cool and store in the refrigerator.

5. Solid oil. Yes, and this is not a joke. You just need to buy not synthetic grease, but a fat-based one. But after use, the heels will be dark in color for some time.

6. Phyto ointment. You will need aloe juice. Mix 100 milliliters of juice, 150 milliliters of castor oil, and add about 50 milliliters of eucalyptus oil. Mix everything.

7. Cream with plantain. Dried plantain leaves should be thoroughly ground into powder. Plantain is a truly healing plant that promotes wound healing and restoration of damaged cells; in addition, it will help overcome unpleasant symptoms, but only fresh leaves retain this property.

Mix the leaf powder with almond oil. Then add Vaseline to the mixture. Component ratio 1/9.

It softens the skin of the feet and heels very well. It can be combined with apple cider vinegar or as a stand-alone remedy.

Treatment of cracked heels has several basic rules:

1. Regular hydration and prevention.

2. Gentle peeling. Wet skin is treated with pumice, and dry skin with a nail file. The procedure should not be performed too often; the normal interval between procedures is 10-14 days. In any case, monitor the condition of your skin.

3. Balanced diet and drinking regime.

4. A combination of several types of treatment, it includes not only ointment, but also creams, masks and baths.

5. Ointments and masks should be applied to steamed legs.

6. It is better to leave the mask or ointment on all night.

7. After each peeling, carry out a moisturizing procedure.

8. During treatment, you should wear comfortable shoes made from natural materials.

9. If you have problems with excess weight, then you simply need to start losing it, since your heels can crack due to problems with metabolism and excessive stress.

10. You should not wear open shoes during treatment.

11. Always read the instructions when purchasing ointments.

12. Do not use the product if you are allergic to one of the components.

13. If you have diabetes, pregnancy or lactation, consult your doctor before using the product.

14. Take care of blood circulation in your feet. You can use massage devices.

As first aid for a heel crack that hurts a lot, medical glue is perfect.

Treat the crack, this way you will reduce pain and further growth of the crack. And it is worth taking care of additional hygiene in this area, since cracks are a very convenient place for the development of infections and bacteria, especially if they bleed.

Cracks are unpleasant symptoms of heel spurs that cause discomfort in Everyday life. Many patients complain of pain that prevents them from fully moving and leading a normal lifestyle. Ointment for cracked heels will be effective only if the primary pathology is eliminated.

Among the main reasons that contribute to the skin on the legs becoming dry and problematic, cracking, and vitamin deficiency. Treatment consists of regularly using heel cream and enriching the body with vitamins. It is recommended to eat enough fresh vegetables and fruits, meat and fish, and use healing agents.

Cracked feet can result from poor hygiene or open shoes. Excessive care of the skin of the feet and frequent aqua-peelings lead to tissue damage. If after the next procedure a similar problem appears, you should postpone it for a while.

If the cracks in the skin of the feet are caused by a fungus, no additional nice smell and itching, the problem should be treated comprehensively. The following groups of medications are prescribed:

anti-inflammatory drugs (Dimexide);
antifungal agents (“Clotrimazole”);
hormonal therapy (“Hydrocortisone”);
antibiotics;
painkillers (Analgin);
medicinal cosmetics from a pharmacy;
ointments, gels, creams of folk recipes.

Review of products with a healing effect

Choosing the right restorative cream for chapped feet is not easy. Good medicine does not always cost a lot of money. You can use folk remedies, which in short term capable of healing cracks. Before using a herbal remedy at home, it is recommended to consult a doctor to determine if you have any allergic reactions.

Onion compress	A homemade onion-based recipe for cracked heels is in demand. You should steam your feet in a basin with hot water by adding a teaspoon of baking soda or hydrogen peroxide. Then finely chop a small onion, place it on a napkin and apply it to the affected area. Then the feet are wrapped in cling film and the compress is left overnight. After sleep, the lotion is removed, the heel is gently wiped with pumice, and the feet are smeared with fatty creams or oils. Care must be regular, then the effect will appear.
Creamy balm with egg and lemon	It is necessary to prepare a mixture consisting of 2 yolks, 2 teaspoons of starch and a teaspoon lemon juice. An effective heel cream can restore damaged areas. After using the cream mask, you need to remove the residue with water and do a light peeling.
Softening wound healing lozenge	For the mixture you will need to combine the following components in equal parts: flour, aloe juice, fish oil, onion juice. A cake is formed and fixed to the limb with a bandage. It is better to apply the product at night, after putting on a clean sock before going to bed. In the morning, after removing the cake particles, you should lubricate the skin with a solution of calendula or ammonia.
Using Vinegar	Vinegar helps with the problem of heel spurs and cracks. The acid contained in the product relieves tired legs, softens the skin and exfoliates dead particles of the epidermis. To prepare the solution, mix half a cup of regular or apple cider vinegar with water (2-3 glasses). Next, a cotton towel is moistened in the resulting substance and wrapped around the legs. After 15-20 minutes, the solution is washed off, the skin of the heels is cleaned with pumice and lubricated with a greasy ointment or cream.
Aspirin	To prepare the medicine, you should mix acetylsalicylic acid tablet with medical alcohol or vodka. A few drops of iodine are added to the resulting mixture. You will need up to 10 tablets to prepare a miracle product. Store the solution in the refrigerator and regularly lubricate your heels with a cotton pad. The first result will be noticeable after a week.
"Zorka"	It is difficult to classify the cream as a pharmacy product, since its main use is aimed at treating and caring for the cow's udder. The product is used for cracked toes and heels, softening, nourishing and moisturizing delicate skin. Before use, you need to steam your feet in warm water. Among the disadvantages of the cream, it is worth highlighting the pungent odor. Use "Zorka" at night before bed.

Medicines for the treatment of cracks and instructions for use

Medications are available in pharmacies, they are available without a prescription, and the pharmacist will help you administer them depending on your requirements. The list of popular drugs includes herbal products.

Urea is a unique substance that can retain moisture for a long period of time, preventing the skin from drying out. Foot cream with urea must be applied after bath procedures. Regular use of the drugs will help cure painful cracks and make the heels soft.

Evo cream. A cream with a healing effect is recommended for the treatment and prevention of diseases associated with dry skin. The product has an exfoliating antifungal effect and successfully copes with corns and calluses on the finger. The cream contains the following components: 10% urea, coconut and olive oil, extracts of sage, oak bark, pine needles, medicinal cream-wax, glycerin. Evo cream is often prescribed to eliminate unpleasant foot odor and sweating.

Levomekol gel. Combination type drug for local use. Relieves inflammation, prevents skin from cracking and bursting, helps wounds heal. Quickly penetrates tissues, stimulates regeneration processes. The composition includes chloramphenicol, methyluracil and other auxiliary components. Before use, soak a cloth with the product and apply to the affected area. There is a risk of allergic reactions to individual components of the drug; this should be taken into account before use.

Steam your feet in a bath with herbal extracts or soda.
Do a light peeling.
Apply a layer of ointment to a cotton pad and apply to the heel.
Then wrap your feet with film and put socks on top.
The product is left overnight to absorb, and washed off in the morning with a decoction of chamomile or oak bark.

Zinc ointment. A zinc-based medicine will help in solving the problem of skin healing. The ointment costs a penny, and the effect appears after several uses. Patients note that after using zinc ointment, the skin on the heels begins to peel less, and rapid regeneration and healing occur. Reviews rarely contain negative feedback; there are cases of individual intolerance, manifested through itching, redness and burning. If this happens, treatment is postponed until the symptoms disappear, and another drug is selected.

Contraindications for use

The main condition of treatment is to use drugs so that there are no negative consequences for the body. If you decide to undergo treatment, you should postpone cosmetic procedures such as a pedicure or warn the specialist about more gentle treatment of the skin. If you do not give cracks in your legs a chance to heal completely, discomfort will begin to appear, which often ends with taking painkillers. In this case, you need to be careful, some drugs are addictive.

The problem of cracking skin on the heels is very widespread. It creates significant discomfort, and often even causes severe pain when walking. In order to eliminate this phenomenon, you can use one of the best creams for cracked heels proposed in our rating. We have analyzed their advantages and disadvantages, so your choice will ultimately be made taking into account almost all the nuances.

The best manufacturers of creams for cracked heels

It turns out that most of the brands in our ranking are Ukrainian and Russian. They are the ones that have the lowest price, in contrast to the products of one American company, which is also included in the list of the most popular in its industry. The most popular brands include:

Green pharmacy is a brand owned by JSC Elfa, a company operating on the market since 1997. Its products are that rare case when good quality does not mean a high price. The brand is widely represented in pharmacies, grocery and cosmetic supermarkets.
Natural Spa is just a brand, but a fairly well-known one, the rights to which belong to the pharmaceutical research center “Beauty Alliance”. In production, the company adheres to an international quality system, which allows it to create organic products.
Grandma Agafya's Recipes- This trademark, developed on the basis of ancient recipes of the famous herbalist from Siberia Ermakova Agafya Tikhonovna. That is why its products use the most natural ingredients and do not contain various silicones, dyes, or parabens.
SCHOLL– in our ranking this is the most expensive brand, which is over 100 years old. It was founded in 1889 by Dr. William Mathias Scholl. Particular attention is paid here to creating products specifically for foot care.
NATURE honey is a brand of the Anglo-Ukrainian manufacturer Georg BioSystems, known in its niche for its special ingredients. One of them is onion flavones, thanks to which the company’s products do not have a strong odor.

Rating of the best anti-crack foot creams

When selecting candidates for inclusion in our rating, we first of all paid attention to user reviews and compared the results obtained with the declared effects. Also, when choosing the best foot creams for cracked heels, the following points were taken into account:

Volume;
Package;
Consistency;
Texture;
Smell;
Compound;
Safety;
Absorption rate;
Side effects;
Available contraindications;
Purpose.

The best creams for cracked heels

This rating mainly considers inexpensive and accessible products that can be easily purchased in online stores, a supermarket or a pharmacy. Each of them has several properties - moisturizing, softening, healing.

Heels are fine from NATURE med

This is the best cream for cracked heels on feet, and like other NATURE med products, it does not disappoint with its composition. In it, most of the components honestly exert their effect - moisturize, soften and restore the skin. Despite its versatility, it is inexpensive; in 2018, the price is approximately 100 rubles. Moreover, it can be used by both men and women, although the manufacturer has set an age limit (from 18 years). It was developed in Ukraine, so the price here is simply excellent.

Advantages:

Various effects;
Long-term exposure;
Instant results;
Fast absorption;
Compound.

Flaws:

Not found.

The “Heels are OK” cream is available in two volumes, 75 and 150 ml; for the test, you can first buy a smaller package.

There is nothing really special about this product. According to reviews, its low price, pleasant smell and bright moisturizing effect are captivating. Damaged areas are restored due to the presence of natural oils jojoba and shea. Using the product does not lead to allergies, which is not surprising, because it contains practically no harmful chemicals. This cream for the treatment of cracked heels, just like the previous one, is made in Ukraine and is also incredibly cheap.

Advantages:

Price;
Package design;
Convenient tube;
Smells like herbs.

Flaws:

The resulting effect cannot be called “fabulous”;
Poor absorption.

It is unlikely that you will be able to find Natural Spa cream in a pharmacy, but it is actively sold in household chemicals and cosmetics supermarkets.

Nourishing cream from “Granny Agafya’s Recipes”

This product is good both in terms of results and ease of use. The composition has a pleasant mint-colored texture, spreads over the foot without any problems, is instantly absorbed and does not irritate the skin. It is also important that after using it there is no sticky or greasy film left on the feet. Due to the not very liquid consistency, the consumption is small. Those who value deep hydration of their heels will appreciate the presence of vitamin E, which has excellent softening and nourishing properties.

Advantages:

Compatible with dry skin;
Does not dry out heels;
In addition, it relieves corns;
Content of plant components;
Aroma.

Flaws:

The volume is only 75 ml.

SCHOLL ACTIVE REPAIR K+

This anti-crack foot cream wins competitions in terms of the speed of the effect achieved, which, according to reviews, can be achieved in 7-10 days. At the same time, improvements are noticeable after the first use: softening, moisturizing and healing of damaged areas is noted. The product is available in a 60 ml tube, but if you use the product, according to the instructions, only 2 times a day and it is well absorbed, this volume is enough for at least a month.

Advantages:

Instant results;
The benefits are obvious;
Reliable prevention;
Manufacturer's reputation.

Flaws:

Price;
Volume.

Why SCHOLL products are so interesting, you will learn from this video:

Healing cracks from “Green Pharmacy”

And again we present to your attention a product produced in Ukraine. It is designed specifically for healing cracks, but can also be used to eliminate dry calluses. True, here the brand has clearly deviated somewhat from its “green” policy, because the composition contains many “suspicious” components, for example, propylparaben and sodium polyacrylate. Despite this, customers do not complain about allergies in the reviews. Perhaps this is all because the product is designed for use by people with sensitive skin.

Advantages:

Naturalness;
Hypoallergenic;
Price;
Large volume;
Skin softening.

Flaws:

Package size;
Time limit for use.

As a result of applying the cream from the Green Pharmacy, skin regeneration is activated, it is softened, nourished and moisturized.

What is the best product to buy to eliminate cracked heels?

If the skin is very dry, then it is important that the composition contains various organic oils and natural vitamins in liquid form. At the same time, you need to avoid products with parabens, dyes and fragrances.

Here are a few more nuances:

If you need something really cheap, a healing cream against cracked legs with oil is quite suitable tea tree from Natural Spa.
Those who plan to use the product frequently should choose a product from the Green Pharmacy brand.
If you want to get results quickly, within a week or two, it is better to buy a product from SCHOLL.
Natural and original cream is offered by the trademark “Grandmother Agafya’s Recipes”.
For reliable prevention of cracked heels, it would be logical to purchase NATURE med.

If you want the skin on your feet to be healthy and not cause problems, choose only best creams for cracked heels, suggested in our rating, and provide her with decent care.

Are you already preparing for the beach season? Don't forget to take care of the beauty of your feet. After all beautiful nails and pink feet are certainly a source of pride and sexuality for every woman. Sometimes the mood is darkened by cracks and corns, so today we will talk about methods of treating cracked heels and the reasons for their appearance.

The skin of the feet is exposed to daily stress, so it is in great need of proper care. However, not everyone pays attention to inconspicuous areas. Yes, rough heels are hidden from the eyes of others, but the discomfort they cause cannot be hidden anywhere.

Many girls are tormented by the question, where do these cracks come from? There are actually many reasons for this. Let's talk about everything in order.

Poor nutrition. As a rule, the foods you eat affect everything. From the health of our hair to the condition of the skin on our feet. Dry dermis is usually caused by a lack of vitamins A and E.
Uncomfortable shoes. Poor quality material, unstable heels, etc. - all this can cause cracks and more. Hard skin is the most minor consequence of wearing “bad” shoes. And often the result of such savings is fungus and other problems.
Diseases. Diseases can be either dermatological or internal. Cracks can appear as a result of diabetes, thyroid dysfunction and gastritis.

Having found out the cause of the disease, it will be easier to prescribe a course of therapy. Fortunately, there are many treatment options.

Treatment with medications at home

To eliminate defects in the skin of the feet, it is not necessary to visit expensive salons. Thanks to the variety of drugs, you can carry out procedures at home.

Medicines for cracked heels are available in the following types:

creams and ointments;
pedicure socks;
masks;
fortified complexes (containing A and E).

Creams and ointments

Cracked heel cream is the most common product used to soften rough skin. This is an effective and affordable product that is easy to apply.

There are many drugs available in pharmacies and cosmetics stores.

At the same time, I would like to highlight a number of the most popular means:

"Radevit";
"Zazhivin";
"BioAstin antifungal";
"Lamisil";
"Balzamed";
Zinc ointment;
"Gewol";
Calendula ointment.

Action of ointments:

Tissue regeneration.
Skin moisturizing.
Normalization of the process of keratinization of the dermis.
Skin softening.
Nutrition.

The product must be used according to the instructions. Each drug has contraindications that should be carefully studied.

If the problem is acute, then you should resort to stronger ointments. This is Bepanten and regular Vaseline.

If the hardening is not treated promptly, the problem may worsen.

We’ll talk about how to get rid of deep cracks in the heels, but one of the simplest and most effective remedies is Bepanten. This is a deep-acting preparation that should be applied twice a day to steamed, cleansed skin. The product is expensive, however, it has a cheaper analogue, De Panthenol.

Vaseline is inexpensive and at the same time very effective drug. The result of its use will be elastic, delicate skin, and the feeling of itching and irritation will go away.

Mask socks

A modern remedy in the fight against rough skin is the use of special pedicure socks. They are made in the shape of a leg and are made of waterproof material. There is a liner inside that produces the effect of a mask. It is impregnated with a special composition that eliminates dry skin and heals cracks.

These socks are best worn at night after a bath. Firstly, the dermis of the feet will be steamed. Secondly, the more hours of exposure, the better. At the same time, observe the measure - a maximum of 8 hours. The minimum time for wearing socks is 2 hours.

Folk remedies for cracked heels

Not everyone prefers store-bought medications and wonders how to treat cracked heels with folk remedies. There are many methods and recipes for home therapy for this problem. We have selected the simplest and most effective ones.

Foot baths

The baths are designed for steaming the stratum corneum. This will make the skin more responsive to procedures to remove roughened dermis. This therapy is very pleasant and gives a lot of pleasure.

However, like any other methods, it has contraindications:

wounds, skin damage;
allergy;
individual intolerance;
the first day after the pedicure.

Making baths is very simple. Water is poured into the basin comfortable temperature, and agents are added, depending on the type of therapy. Then the legs are lowered into the basin and steamed for 10–15 minutes.

IN medicinal purposes baths are done daily. Then - once a week to maintain the result.

Additives for baths in the ratio of 2 liters of water:

peat oxidate;
milk + starch 2 tbsp each;
hot whey;
2 tbsp. soda + a little liquid soap;
30 grams of starch;
about 1 liter of chamomile or calendula decoction;
herbal mixture of St. John's wort and nettle.

To soften the skin, regular bath salts, which are sold in any cosmetics store, are also suitable.

Natural ointments and creams

You can make your own creamy products.

Recipe 1. Ingredients:

badger fat;
decoction of celandine and calendula.

Preparation:

The fat is heated in a water bath.
The finished broth is poured into heated badger fat.
The ingredients are mixed together.

After the mixture has cooled, apply it to the affected areas. The ointment should be warmed before each use.

Recipe 2. Ingredients:

vinegar 9% - 50 ml;
glycerin – 50 ml.

The components are mixed together and applied to the heels before bed. Cotton socks are worn on top.

Recipe 3.Ingredients:

petrolatum;
a mixture of dried herbs calendula and plantain.

The ratio of Vaseline and herbs is 1 to 10. The components are mixed together, and the finished mixture is applied to the skin of the feet.

You can add 1-2 drops to ready-made homemade ointments. essential oil for best effect.

Compresses and masks

Compresses and masks are applied after baths or after showers. As part of the course of therapy, procedures are performed daily, and then 1–2 times a week.

There are 10 basic recipes:

A mixture of glycerin and apple cider vinegar (2:1).
100 gr. mix flour with 1 tbsp. l. vegetable oil and 30 gr. melted honey. The mask is applied at night, and socks are put on top.
Curd compress from one ingredient.
A mixture of any cosmetic oils. Squeezes made from olives, grape seeds, corn and jojoba are best suited.
Vitamin E capsules.
Butter.
A mixture of grated apple, beer and butter. For one fruit you need 100 ml of beer and 2 tbsp. l. oils
A mixture of ammonia 10% and glycerin (1:1).
Medical bile.
Chopped celery and butter (1:1).

Essential oils

Natural oils help eliminate cracked heels. They are used in baths, massages and added to homemade creams. Only a few drops are needed to achieve the desired result.

To massage your feet, mix the following oils together:

coconut;
sesame;
olive

Add 2-3 drops of essential oil to the mixture.

The following extracts are suitable for massaging:

lavender;
lemon;
eucalyptus.

They have an anti-inflammatory effect, which helps prevent fungus and other infectious diseases.

A couple of drops of any essential oil will fill your bath with aroma and additional beneficial properties. Each extract has its own characteristics. Select the appropriate product and use it in your procedures.

Mechanical removal of dead cells

The mechanical procedure includes the following steps:

Steaming the legs. For this purpose, baths with additives are made.
Treatment of feet with pumice stone and brush.
Light massage.
Wipe with an antimicrobial agent.

Finally, the skin of the feet is moisturized with cream, ointment or cosmetic oils.

Which doctor should I contact?

Which specialist to contact depends on the cause of cracked heels. But you shouldn't self-diagnose.

Just visit a therapist who will assess the condition of your feet and, most likely, write you a referral to a specialized specialist:

nutritionist;
gastroenterologist;
dermatologist;
cosmetologist;
endocrinologist;

If you are sure that you do not have internal diseases, then you should contact a cosmetologist or dermatologist.

Preventive actions

Almost every girl faces such a problem as cracked feet. Therefore, it is very appropriate to devote time to measures to prevent the development of the problem.

List of preventive measures:

Buy only comfortable shoes made from quality materials.
Consume foods rich in vitamins A and E in sufficient quantities.
Do home treatments for your feet (scrubbing, masks, baths) 1-2 times a week.
Treat your feet with pumice several times a week.
Try to use foot cream daily.
After visiting public places, it is recommended to treat your feet with antifungal agents.
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or solarium. All this leads to excessive dry skin.
If possible, afford regular visits to a pedicurist.

Don't forget also about proper nutrition. In order to sufficiently receive the necessary vitamins, it is recommended to buy pharmaceutical preparations.

Cracked heels can be bothersome all year round. If in summer this is usually the consequence of overheating in the sun, then in spring the problem is more often caused by vitamin deficiency. At the same time, it is better to have time to cure the skin of your feet before the hot season, so that you can enjoy wearing open sandals and running barefoot on the beach.

Cracked heels are a very unpleasant and painful phenomenon that falls into the category dermatitis (skin diseases ). The crack is a partial breakdown of the integrity of the skin on the heel. They can be either an independent pathology, with the development of further complications, or a manifestation of any disease.

Cracked heels are a very common phenomenon. Women are most susceptible to this pathology, but it is also observed among men. It is generally accepted that cracked heels appear only with age. However, this is not true; they can appear even in young people. The incidence of this problem depends on the presence of concomitant pathologies. More than 90 percent of people suffering from diabetes or anemia are susceptible to this pathology. Banal hypovitaminosis causes cracked heels in every second person.

Cracked heels cause severe inconvenience, so some people are ready to take drastic measures. One such method is to repair cracks using construction adhesive ( super glue). Thus, some ordinary people recommend gluing cracks with super glue, claiming that this method is safe and effective.

The skin consists of epidermis and dermis. Due to its structural characteristics, the skin of the foot is also called thick skin. The difference between thick skin and thin skin ( all parts of the body except the feet and palms) is the thickness of the epidermis ( top layer of skin). The epidermis of the foot consists of five layers of skin, which equals 70 to 100 layers of cells.

Structure of the epidermis of the foot:

basal layer;
layer of spinous cells;
granular layer;
shiny or radiant layer;
stratum corneum.

The main cells of the epidermis are called keratinocytes because they contain the protein keratin. Keratin, being the main protein of the skin, performs a protective function.

Basal layer

It is the innermost layer and performs the regeneration function ( skin restoration). New epidermal cells are formed in it as old cells from the surface layer gradually die off. The complete process of epidermis renewal occurs in 28 days. However, with age or certain diseases ( anemia) this process is slowing down. The epidermis is not renewed with new and high-quality cells, and the skin of the feet, taking on the greatest load, is damaged.

Spine cell layer

This layer consists of 10 layers of cells. In this layer, some stages of growth of keratinocytes migrating from the basal layer occur. These layers are connected using certain structures ( desmosomes), which look like spikes ( hence the name).

Granular layer

Consists of 4 - 5 layers of keratinocytes in which proteins are synthesized ( keratin, filaggrin). Keratinocytes are connected to each other by a kind of cementing substance, thus creating a waterproof barrier in the epidermis. This barrier further prevents the skin from drying out. As this layer thins, the skin dries out and cracks form.
In this layer, a complex substance is formed - keratohyalin, which under a microscope looks like granules or grains ( which is how it got its name). This substance is a precursor to keratin and performs skin protective functions.

Shiny layer

Consists of 3 - 5 layers of flat keratinocytes. In this layer, keratohyalin granules merge and form a light-refracting mass. This mass, essentially consisting of keratin and hyaline, is found only in the epidermis of the feet and palms.

Stratum corneum

It is the most superficial and thickest layer. Its thickness on the foot is more than 600 microns. Consists of keratinocytes that have completed differentiation, which are called horny scales. These scales are connected to each other by a cementing substance that is rich in fat. Thanks to these fats, the scales form a dense, normally waterproof layer.

However, thanks to certain enzymes, this layer is split in the superficial layers. As a result, the horny scales begin to be rejected. Thus, there is a constant renewal of the epidermis, which consists of the rejection of superficial horny scales and the formation of new ones.

Changes in skin cells on the heels while walking

While walking, the foot, and along with it the skin, takes on the entire load of the body. The skin is subject to pressure and friction while walking. At the same time, skin cells constantly change their shape - they stretch and contract. The cells at the edges of the foot are subject to the greatest changes. When you place your feet on the ground, they stretch, and when you lift them, they compress.

At the same time, in order to increase the area of the foot and evenly distribute the load along its edges, the cells of the superficial stratum corneum begin to grow rapidly. This phenomenon is called hyperkeratosis and often underlies the formation of cracks. Because the thicker the stratum corneum, the less elastic it is, which means that when walking, those cells of the foot that are constantly stretched will be injured and destroyed.

Normally, the process of formation of new cells and removal of old ones is in balance and controlled by the body. However, for certain reasons, epidermal cells may be more vulnerable and damaged more quickly.

Exist following reasons formation of cracked heels:

diabetes;
Iron-deficiency anemia;
hypovitaminosis, in particular vitamins A and E;
fungal infection;
dermatitis.

Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is one of the main pathologies accompanied by cracked heels. The difference between cracked feet in diabetes is that they are not accompanied by a feeling of pain or discomfort.

The cause of the development of cracks is diabetic angiopathy ( vascular damage). In this case, a person’s blood circulation in the vessels is disrupted and, first of all, the vessels of the legs are affected. Blood, as you know, is a source of not only oxygen, but also nutrients for tissues. Therefore, trophic changes occur in tissues where blood circulation is impaired. Elasticity is lost, and most importantly, the skin of the feet ( and whole body) becomes dehydrated. The lack of moisture in the stratum corneum causes a violation of the integrity of its structure, that is, the formation of cracks.

In diabetes mellitus, a complicating factor is diabetic polyneuropathy ( peripheral nerve damage). It is the reason for the absence of pain. This seemingly relieving factor provokes the deepening of cracks and their expansion. Since a person does not feel pain, the cracks increase and become infected.

Iron-deficiency anemia

The cause of cracked heels is sideropenic syndrome due to iron deficiency anemia. This syndrome is caused by iron deficiency in tissues and, as a consequence, degenerative changes in the skin. Since iron in tissues is used for the synthesis of various proteins and enzymes, its deficiency or absence leads to disruption of the structure and division of cells.
Iron deficiency is most acutely felt in epithelial cells and epidermal cells, since these are the most rapidly renewing tissues of the body.

Iron deficiency in the epidermis is manifested by the following symptoms:

dry skin;
peeling of the skin;
formation of cracks.

Hypovitaminosis

A lack of vitamins A and E in the body leads to various dystrophic and inflammatory changes in the skin. Vitamin E is also called a skin protector because it protects cell membranes from damage. Even a slight decrease in it leads to dehydration of skin cells. Along with water, the elasticity of the skin is also lost. Dry and inelastic skin of the feet cannot withstand the load that is placed on it. Under the load of weight, the skin bursts and cracks form in it.

Vitamin A, in turn, takes part in skin renewal processes. It synthesizes enzymes that prevent premature keratinization of the epidermis. However, with hypovitaminosis A, the process of keratinization ceases to be under control, and increased keratinization of the skin, that is, hyperkeratosis, is observed. The skin is dry and rough. The inelastic skin of the feet is injured and cracks form in it.

Fungal infection

Cracks in the heels can not only become an entry point for fungal penetration, but also be a consequence of a fungal infection. The most common source of cracks in the legs are fungal infections such as rubrophytosis and epidermophytosis. These are the most common lesions of the skin of the feet. The fungus, developing on the surface of the foot, stimulates an enhanced process of keratinization. As a result, the skin becomes thickened due to multiple keratinized layers. As is already known, the thicker the stratum corneum, the less elastic it is. Inelastic epidermal cells are more easily injured when walking.

A fungal infection disrupts the integrity of the layers of the epidermis, as a result of which the surface layer of the skin becomes permeable to moisture and the penetration of a secondary infection. This further complicates the crack situation.

Dermatitis

Foot dermatitis can also cause cracked heels. The reason for this is the same loss of elasticity and dry skin. With dermatitis, the skin becomes dry, irritated, and more susceptible to injury. Due to the presence of the inflammatory process, the skin becomes very susceptible to the slightest injury. A minor abrasion or scratch on the foot leads to the development of microcracks, which eventually turn into cracks. The cracks are constantly inflamed, painful and become a gateway for numerous infections.

Factors such as standing for long periods of time, obesity, and poor hygiene are risk factors for the development of cracked heels. People who are overweight are at greatest risk, since the feet bear the entire burden, and along with them the skin. If you add to this a long stay on your feet, then cracked heels will not take long to appear.
Neglect of hygiene rules, tight and uncomfortable shoes are factors that, together with the main reasons, contribute to the formation of cracks in the feet.

How to get rid of cracked heels?

Eliminating the causes of skin disorders

Cracked heels are rarely an independent pathology. Basically, they indicate the presence of immune, metabolic or endocrine disorders in the body. Therefore, the treatment of cracked heels begins with eliminating the causes that led to their appearance. To find out the cause, you need to see your family doctor and undergo some tests.

Laboratory and instrumental studies to identify the causes of cracked heels:

glucose tolerance test;
Dopplerography of the vessels of the lower limb;
microscopy of tissue from the lesion.

General blood analysis
A complete blood count can detect one of the most common causes of cracked heels - anemia.

Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by:

a decrease in hemoglobin concentration of less than 120 grams per liter;
decrease in the number of red blood cells less than 3.5 x 9 12
color index is less than 0.9;
red blood cells of various sizes are observed ( anisocytosis), red blood cells of smaller diameter ( microcytosis).

A hematologist can confirm or rule out anemia. For a more detailed picture, he may ask some questions, a positive answer to which will indicate in favor of anemia.

For example:

“Has the patient developed unusual food cravings? For example, an irresistible desire to eat chalk, soil, clay?
“Do you have any preferences for salty, spicy foods?”
“Does he have any significant weakness?”
“Does the patient have rapid heartbeats or shortness of breath when walking?”

Iron deficiency anemia is also characterized by weakness, rapid heartbeats and sometimes perverted taste preferences (to chalk, earth).

Iron deficiency anemia is treated with iron supplements. The length of time you take these medications depends on the degree of anemia and individual characteristics every organism. The dose also depends on the degree of hemoglobin reduction and is selected individually.

List of the most common iron supplements:

totem;
sorbifer;
ferrum lek;
hemopher.

Biochemical blood test and glucose tolerance test
A biochemical blood test can reveal different stages of diabetes. As a rule, the test is taken on an empty stomach.

Indicators of biochemical blood analysis for diabetes mellitus:

fasting glucose more than 5.5 mmol per liter;
after eating, the glucose level is more than 8.0 mmol per liter.

After a biochemical analysis, an endocrinologist may recommend a sugar load test or a glucose tolerance test. The essence of the test is that after taking a biochemical blood test on an empty stomach, the patient is given a glass of water with 75 grams of dissolved sugar to drink. After this, the patient's glucose level is determined every half hour.

Blood glucose levels two hours after a glucose load:

less than 7 mmol/liter - regarded as normal;
from 7 to 11 mmol/liter - regarded as prediabetes;
more than 11 mmol/liter - diabetes mellitus.

To clarify the diagnosis, the endocrinologist may ask some questions.

For example:

“Does the patient feel constantly thirsty?”
“Is your skin dry?”
“Does he urinate frequently?”

If a person often feels thirsty, and the skin is dry and irritated, then he may have diabetes.

For diabetes mellitus, hypoglycemic agents are prescribed that inhibit the formation of glucose in the liver, thereby reducing its level in tissues and blood. As a rule, drugs are prescribed before meals or during the meal itself. The dose of drugs is selected based on glucose levels and the presence of diabetes complications ( damage to the kidneys and blood vessels of the eye).

Hypoglycemic agents for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

metformin;
glibenclamide ( synonym - Maninil);
glipizide.

Also a mandatory element in the treatment of diabetes is following a diet, which consists of limited consumption of carbohydrates ( white bread, baking, sugar).

Dopplerography of the vessels of the lower limb
If the doctor suspects that the cause of the cracks is poor blood supply to the lower extremities, then he may direct the patient to undergo Doppler ultrasound of the vessels of the legs. This diagnostic method evaluates the condition of the vessels of the lower extremities and also determines the speed of blood flow in these vessels.
With angiopathy, a decrease in blood flow is observed, the walls of the vessels may be thickened, narrowed, or the blood supply in them may be completely disrupted. Treatment for poor circulation depends on the cause of the disease.

Drugs that improve blood circulation in blood vessels:

venoruton;
beat.

Microscopy method
The microscopy method is a publicly available study of fungal infections. Scales from the lesion are treated with a special solution and then examined under a microscope. If a fungus was found in the test material, the dermatologist recommends antifungal treatment.

Antifungals used in the treatment of fungal foot infections:

terbizil cream;
mycoterbine cream;
Nizoral cream.

How to take care of your feet to avoid complications?

Ointments for the treatment of cracks

A drug	Mechanism of action	Method of use
ointment Balzamed (contains provitamin B5, vitamin E, vitamin A, glycerin and lactic acid)	The ointment has a moisturizing and nourishing effect on the skin of the feet, preventing the formation of cracks, redness, and irritation. Vitamins A and E increase skin resistance to infections and damage	The ointment is applied effortlessly to the area of cracks using massaging movements. The drug should be used daily, after water procedures
ointment Radevit (containsvitamin E, vitamin A, vitaminD2, emulsion wax and glycerin)	The cream stimulates skin regeneration and has an anti-inflammatory and disinfectant effect. Vitamins E, A and D2 promote rapid restoration of damaged tissues	Radevit is applied in a thin layer twice a day. Before using the ointment, the skin should be treated with an antiseptic
Lamisil cream	The cream fights infection, prevents and destroys fungus. Promotes rapid healing of cracks and restoration of affected tissues	Apply a small amount of cream to problem areas once a day. Before using the cream, feet should be washed with warm water and dried with a towel.
BioAstin antifungal cream (contains flax oil, sage extract, mint extract, clove essential oil, tea tree essential oil, urea and allantoin)	The cream has an antifungal effect, fights infections, protects the skin from pathogenic microflora. The oils contained in the cream have a softening effect. Extracts and extracts from plants promote rapid healing of cracks	Apply the ointment to the cleansed skin of the heels with massaging movements.
gel Zazhivin (includestea tree essential oil, milk thistle oil; vitaminFand sage extract)	The gel promotes rapid healing of cracked heels, has a wound-healing and bactericidal effect	The cream should be applied before bedtime with massaging movements on pre-washed feet.
foot cream for cracked heels Ambulance (contains petroleum jelly, wax, glycerin, allantoin, olive oil, vitaminsFAndE)	The cream has a healing and bactericidal effect. The herbal extracts included in the composition accelerate the healing of cracks. Oils and wax soften and nourish the skin of the feet. Vitamins activate the restoration of damaged skin	The cream is applied to the affected areas. Before applying the cream, the skin of the feet should be steamed and treated with pumice. Secure the crack on top with adhesive tape, tightening its edges. Put on socks from cotton fabric
Dardia Lipo Balm (contains urea, microcrystalline wax, paraffin, petrolatum and corn starch)	Urea in the cream combats dryness, effectively softening rough skin. Wax and paraffin normalize the water balance of the skin. The cream has a restorative effect, promotes the rapid healing of cracks	Apply with circular massaging movements. Use as a nourishing cream twice daily

Traditional methods for treating cracked heels

To treat cracked heels, traditional medicine suggests:

compresses;
baths;
ointments.

Compresses
Compresses for the treatment of cracked heels moisturize and nourish the skin of the feet. The composition prepared in accordance with the recipe is applied to the affected areas, after which the feet are wrapped in plastic wrap. To enhance the effect, you should wear warm socks, and after removing the product, lubricate your heels with a rich cream.

The following compresses are used in the treatment of cracked heels:

onion compress;
compress of apples and milk;
potato compress;
aloe compress;
oil compresses.

Onion compress
A compress based on onions has excellent bactericidal properties. The procedure should be repeated at least three times.

To prepare the compress you will need:

two medium-sized onions;
one teaspoon of soda;
two liters of warm water;
cling film;
clean cloth;
bandage.

Before applying the compress, your feet should be steamed by holding them in warm water with soda. Next, the onion pulp wrapped in cloth should be applied to the heels, wrapped in film and bandaged. Leave the mixture overnight and wash off in the morning with warm soapy water. After removing the onion, the feet should be treated with pumice and lubricated with rich cream.

Apple and milk compress
The vitamins and microelements contained in milk and apples nourish the skin of the feet and promote the speedy healing of cracks.

In order to prepare an apple-milk compress, you should prepare:

apples - two medium-sized pieces;
milk - 200 grams of low fat content;
baking soda - one teaspoon;
Wheat flour ( of necessity).

Cut the apples into small cubes along with the peel, add milk and soda and place on low heat in an enamel bowl. Cook for 10 - 15 minutes until it becomes a paste. If the mass turns out to be too liquid, you should add one to two teaspoons of wheat flour. After cooling the composition slightly, apply it in a thick layer ( 0.6 - 1 cm) on the heels, placing a gauze bandage on top. You should keep it until the compress is warm. You can extend the effect of the procedure by wrapping the gauze on top with cling film or parchment. You should make an apple-lactine compress at least once a week until a positive result occurs.

Potato compress
Potato compresses have a wound-healing antibacterial effect on cracked heels. The procedure should be carried out daily for ten days.
To prepare the composition, take three raw potatoes. The vegetable should be grated on a fine grater and the paste should be applied to the affected areas. You need to keep the compress for one and a half to two hours, then rinse off the composition, treat the heels with pumice and lubricate with nourishing cream.

Aloe compress
Aloe compresses have a softening effect and promote rapid restoration of cracked heels. Take a few stems of this plant, chop it finely and then soften it to a paste. Using plastic film and a bandage, the mixture should be fixed on the heels, socks should be put on top and the compress should be left overnight.

Oil compresses
Oils have a moisturizing and nourishing effect, therefore they are widely used in the fight against cracked heels. You should take cotton socks and soak them in heated oil. Put socks on pre-steamed feet and cover with cling film on top.

The following types of oils can be used as a base for a compress:

olive;
castor;
almond;
corn;
sunflower.

Glycerin added to any of the above oils will help soften the skin and have an antimicrobial effect. When preparing an oil-glycerin mixture, the ratio should be 2:1. A few drops of fir or eucalyptus essential oil increases the effectiveness of oil compresses. They have a wound healing effect and also improve blood circulation in tissues.

Baths
Daily baths - effective remedy in the treatment of cracked heels. The key to success in using this folk method is the systematic implementation of procedures.

The main ingredients for baths can be used:

herbal infusions;
starch;
sea salt;
White wine.

Herbal infusions for foot baths
Herbal baths have a positive effect on cracked heels due to their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. To carry out the procedure, you need to prepare a decoction. One tablespoon of dry plants should be poured into a liter of water, brought to a boil and kept on low heat for half an hour. Dilute the broth with water to an acceptable temperature and keep your feet in it for thirty to forty minutes. After the bath, pat your feet dry with a towel, give a light massage and lubricate with nourishing cream.

The following plants are used in the treatment of cracked heels:

sage;
St. John's wort;
elecampane;
series;
chamomile;
calendula;
Oak bark.

You need to use dry herbs purchased at the pharmacy.

Bath with starch
In order to prepare a bath with starch for the feet, you will need a liter of warm water and one tablespoon of potato starch. After combining starch with water, immerse your feet in the resulting mass for half an hour. As the composition cools, you should gradually add hot water. Next, wash your feet with warm water without soap, lubricate with nourishing cream and put on socks.
Starch baths soften rough skin on the heels and accelerate the healing of cracks. You can enhance the effect of the procedure by adding a few drops of rosemary essential oil, which has an antibacterial effect. Baths should be taken daily for eight to ten days. For deep, non-healing cracks, replace water with a decoction of herbs such as calendula, chamomile, St. John's wort ( 5 grams of each plant in dry form per liter of water).

You can supplement the starch bath by applying a special mixture to the affected areas. Take equal parts of aloe and onion juice. Combine with fish oil and enough flour to make a paste similar in consistency to yeast dough. Form the mixture into cakes and apply to the cracks, securing on top with wax paper or cling film. Wrap your feet in a bandage and put on warm socks on top. The compress should be left overnight. In the morning, rinse with warm water and treat the cracks with a strong decoction of calendula or oak bark.

Sea salt baths
The microelements contained in sea salt help improve blood circulation and restore affected areas on the feet. Baths with sea salt also have a softening and exfoliating effect. Add one hundred grams of sea salt and one tablespoon of soda to warm water. Soak your feet in the solution for fifteen minutes. Dry with a towel and wipe with a slice of lemon. Afterwards, lubricate your heels with olive or any other oil and put on warm socks.

Wine baths
Wine baths with the addition of linden have a softening effect on rough skin of the heels and promote rapid healing of cracks. To carry out this procedure, you should take two hundred milliliters of dry white wine and one tablespoon of dried linden flowers. Place the mixture on the fire and bring to a boil. Combine a liter of warm water and the resulting decoction and dip your feet in the resulting solution. After ten minutes, rub your feet with a washcloth and return them back to the water. Repeat these steps several times. After the water and wine have cooled, blot your feet and apply nourishing cream or vegetable oil.

Ointments
Cooked according to folk recipes ointments to combat cracked heels should be applied before bed, leaving overnight. To enhance the effect, wrap your feet in plastic wrap and wear warm socks. After washing off the composition, you need to treat the problem areas with pumice, then apply vegetable oil, Vaseline or softening cream.

The following products can serve as the basis for ointments:

pork fat;
badger fat;
petrolatum.

Carrot and pork fat ointment
Take fresh medium-sized carrots and grate them on a fine grater. Melt one hundred grams of pork fat in a water bath. After adding carrots to the melted fat, leave the mixture on the fire for fifteen minutes. Next, strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a glass jar and cool to room temperature. The prepared ointment can be used either independently or as an additional element of care after baths and compresses. Fat softens the skin of the heels well, and the beneficial elements contained in carrots nourish the skin. The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator.

Herbal ointment based on badger fat
The badger fat contained in this ointment will make the skin of the heels more elastic and firm, thanks to the vitamins A and E that are included in its composition. Herbs have a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect, preventing the development of infection in cracked heels.

To prepare the ointment, you need the following ingredients:

badger fat - fifty milliliters;
dried calendula flowers - one teaspoon;
dried celandine flowers - one teaspoon.

Badger fat and plants should be purchased at the pharmacy.
Pour boiling water over the dry herbs and keep them in the water for one minute. Place the fat in a water bath and after ten minutes add calendula flowers and celandine herbs. Keep the mixture in a water bath for thirty minutes, stirring thoroughly and avoiding boiling. Next, the hot fat needs to be strained through a sieve and poured into glassware. The ointment should be stored in the refrigerator and heated in a water bath before use.

Vaseline-based ointment
Plantain ointment prepared with Vaseline has excellent bactericidal and wound-healing properties. Dry leaves of the plant should be ground into fine dust and mixed with a few drops of vegetable, olive or almond oil. Next, combine the composition with Vaseline in a ratio of 1:9.
You can also prepare calendula ointment using Vaseline. One tablespoon of crushed dried flowers of this plant should be mixed with four tablespoons of Vaseline. Calendula ointment stimulates tissue repair, prevents inflammatory processes and has antibacterial properties.

Mechanical treatments for cracked heels

Mechanical treatment of cracked heels consists of removing rough skin on the affected areas and further treating the wounds with special means.

Cleaning includes the following steps:

steaming the skin;
peeling;
crack treatment;
nutrition and hydration.

Steaming the skin

In order to steam the skin on the feet, you should prepare a soda-soap solution. You can prepare various baths with herbs and glycerin.

To prepare a soda-soap solution you will need:

one litre ( four glasses) water - temperature 40 - 50 degrees Celsius;
soda - 30 grams ( one tablespoon);
liquid soap.

Combine all the components in a container designed for foot baths and lower your feet there. As the water cools, add boiling water. The duration of the procedure should be at least thirty minutes.

Bath with glycerin
To prepare a glycerin foot bath, combine five grams ( one teaspoon) glycerin and two liters of warm water ( 45 - 50 degrees Celsius). Place your feet in the water and keep them there for half an hour. You can enhance the effect by adding two tablespoons of 9 percent table vinegar to the solution.

Chamomile bath
Take six tablespoons of dry chamomile and pour half a liter ( two glasses) boiling water. Leave for ten minutes for the solution to infuse. Next, mix the steamed chamomile with three liters of water at room temperature. Place your feet in the water and hold them for ten to fifteen minutes.

Bath with tar soap
One hundred grams of tar soap ( half a block) grind with a grater and mix with two to three liters of warm water. To neutralize the strong odor, you can add a few drops of citrus essential oil to the solution ( lemon, orange, grapefruit). The duration of the procedure is twenty minutes. After the bath, rinse your feet with warm water and wipe dry.

Peeling

Peeling is the process of removing the surface layers of skin. You should know that activities to clean your heels of dead skin should be carried out no more than once a week.

The following products can be used for heel cleaning procedures:

pumice;
pedicure grater;
scrub.

Pumice
Pumice for treating cracked heels should have medium-sized pores. Preference should be given to products of natural origin. Take a pumice stone and move in a circular motion over the rough areas, avoiding areas with healthy skin. If painful sensations occur, the procedure should be stopped.

Pedicure grater
You should start working on your heels using a pedicure sanding float from the center of the foot to the heel. During the procedure, the heels should be moistened with a damp towel.

Scrub
You can remove rough skin from your heels using a special product with abrasive particles. You can buy a scrub at a pharmacy, specialty store, or prepare it yourself.

The following products can be used as the main ingredient for the scrub:

ground natural coffee;
fine sea salt;
corn flour.

Mix two tablespoons of any of the above products with liquid soap to a paste. Apply the mixture to your feet and rub into problem areas in a circular motion. The duration of the procedure is five minutes. Rinse your feet with warm water and dry with a clean towel.

Crack Treatment

Once the dead skin on your heels has been removed, you should treat the cracks with a disinfectant. Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into the wounds. Blot the surface of the crack with a cotton pad. Next, treat the problem area with a cream that contains salicylic, glycolic or lactic acid. These products should be purchased at a pharmacy. After treatment, you should bandage your feet and put on cotton socks.

Nutrition and hydration

To nourish and moisturize dry skin on the feet, you should use creams containing the following ingredients:

lanolin - softens the skin ( GEHWOLmed, ointment for cracks);
Vitamin A - fights infections ( homemade foot cream recipes);
Vitamin E - prevents skin damage ( healer cream with urea);
vitamin B5 - promotes wound healing ( cream balsamed);

Vitamin F - makes the skin elastic ( cream ambulance from cracks).

Prevention of cracked heels

What should you do to prevent cracked heels?

To prevent the formation of cracked heels, you should :

observe the rules of personal hygiene;
wear the right shoes;
Provide your feet with proper care.
Maintain a balanced diet and drinking regime.

Personal hygiene
In order to prevent the occurrence of cracked heels, you should follow the rules of personal hygiene.

Personal hygiene rules to prevent cracked heels:

When visiting a swimming pool, bathhouse, gym, or beach, you must wear closed rubber shoes. Also, during regular visits to these institutions, it is recommended to use antifungal drugs.
Socks, stockings and tights should be changed every day, giving preference to products made from natural fabrics. Synthetics promote increased sweating and the accumulation of sebaceous products.
Avoid wearing other people's shoes and don't even let family members wear your shoes. Pedicures should be done only with your own tools, and when visiting specialized salons, make sure they are sterile.
You should avoid porous rugs in the bathroom, as they provide a fertile environment for the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria.

The right shoes
To prevent cracked heels, special attention should be paid to the choice of shoes. Shoes should be comfortable, well ventilated, with medium heels. It is important to select shoes according to your foot size. Tight, uncomfortable high-heeled shoes place increased stress on the skin of the feet, resulting in cracks.

During warmer months, avoid flip-flops and flip-flops. Due to the impact of the foot on the sole, microcracks appear on the skin of the heels. When exposed to dry air and dust, small injuries can grow into deep cracks. To protect the skin of the feet from the effects of negative factors environment, when wearing open shoes, you need to use heels or thin socks. Shoes made from low-quality synthetic materials cause increased sweating and impaired heat exchange. Artificial, non-breathable materials cause damage and skin diseases, including cracked heels.

Feet care
Proper care begins with daily cleansing of your feet. You should not neglect taking care of your heels, but at the same time, you should not abuse detergents or abrasives.

Rules for daily foot toilet:

The water should not be too hot as it can cause dry skin.
For washing you need to use fatty soap.
If your feet sweat excessively, you need to wash them with bactericidal agents.
Finish washing your feet by rinsing with cold water.
After water procedures, feet should be wiped dry with a separate towel.
After washing, apply to feet nutritious cream or any vegetable oil.
several times a week, using a special washcloth or products with abrasive particles, it is necessary to clean the skin of the feet from dying skin cells.

A deeper cleaning of your feet should be done weekly. Steam your feet by soaking them in warm soapy water for thirty minutes. To enhance the effect, you can add baking soda to the solution at the rate of one tablespoon per liter of water. After this, the softened layer must be removed with a pumice stone or a special pedicure tool.

You should refrain from using the blade, as it can injure the skin. Water for steaming can be replaced with a decoction of herbs such as calendula, chamomile, St. John's wort. Steam two tablespoons of dry plants with a glass of boiling water and leave the decoction for half an hour to infuse. Such baths, in addition to the steaming effect, have a bactericidal effect and prevent the occurrence of infections.

For excessively dry feet, it is useful to do nourishing masks. The product should be applied to problem areas and provide a thermal effect by wrapping the feet with polyethylene film. You need to wear warm socks over the film. You can purchase these masks in specialized stores, pharmacies, or prepare them yourself. When choosing cosmetics Preference should be given to brands that contain natural oils.

Ultraviolet rays have a negative effect on the skin of the feet. Therefore, before exposure to the sun, special protective agents should be applied to the feet, and after sunbathing, the skin should be moisturized. Sea water and hot sand also negatively affect the condition of the feet, after which the skin becomes dry and cracks. Special beach shoes and nourishing foot care products will help prevent cracks.

Diet and water regime
In order to prevent cracked heels, a person must receive a sufficient amount of vitamin A and other elements from food that are responsible for skin restoration.

Diet to prevent the development of cracked heels:

beef and chicken liver, fish oil, cod liver - a source of retinol.
wheat germ oil, sea buckthorn and soybean oil, almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts- contain a large amount of tocopherol.
carrots, sea buckthorn, sorrel, rose hips, spinach, celery, wild garlic are suppliers of carotene.

Dry skin and, as a consequence, the appearance of cracks can be caused by the predominance of low-fat foods in the diet.
Proper water regime will help prevent the occurrence of cracked heels. For good skin health, a person needs to drink at least two liters of water per day. Preference should be given to still or mineralized water, reducing the consumption of coffee and tea. A sufficient amount of moisture also improves metabolism and helps normalize weight. Extra pounds create additional stress on the skin of the feet, causing the formation of cracks.

What should you avoid to prevent cracked heels?

In order to prevent cracked heels, you need to exclude some negative factors from your lifestyle.

To prevent cracked heels, you should not:

ignore personal hygiene rules;
not following foot care procedures;
ignore the use of protective and nourishing products for the feet;
use a blade and other people's pedicure tools;
wear tight shoes;
give preference to synthetic socks;
wearing high-heeled shoes for a long time;
wear shoes made of artificial materials;
abuse low-calorie diets;
not providing the body with sufficient amounts of vitamins A and E;
Drink less than two liters of fluid per day.