Why cracked heels become worse during summer ?

General
1

Cracked heels are a common skin problem that often worsens during summer. Heat, dehydration, and increased exposure to dust and open footwear can make the skin around the heels dry, thick, and prone to painful cracks.

Common Causes

  • Excessive dryness and dehydration

  • Walking barefoot or wearing open-back footwear

  • Prolonged standing

  • Hot weather and sun exposure

  • Lack of foot moisturization

  • Conditions such as diabetes, eczema, obesity, or hypothyroidism

When the skin loses moisture, it becomes less elastic. Pressure on the heels while walking can then cause the thickened skin to split and crack.

Management and Prevention

  • Apply thick moisturizers containing urea, glycerin, or petroleum jelly

  • Drink adequate water to maintain hydration

  • Avoid walking barefoot on hot surfaces

  • Wear comfortable, closed-back footwear

  • Soak feet in lukewarm water and gently exfoliate dead skin

  • Use sunscreen on exposed feet during prolonged sun exposure

Severe cracked heels with bleeding, pain, or signs of infection should not be ignored, especially in diabetic patients, as they may lead to complications if untreated.

What do you think works the best for treating cracked heels?

MBH/PS

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I think wearing footwear when we move around the house is definitely helpful, that is, using indoor footwear. Wearing socks and protective sandals or shoes that enclose the whole foot is helpful when going outdoors.

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Walking over moist grass in the morning and in evening helps in this

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Rightly said. If treatment is delayed, the chances of the infection spreading are higher.

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I have been dealing with severe cracked heels since past few years. However my experience is different.My cracked heels heal during summer and worsen post summer. I tried many creams and oils but to no avail. The best treatment in my opinion is taking internal medicine with doctor’s consultation because sometimes it is no longer skin related to be treated externally but some underlying health issue persists.

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6

In my opinion, taking care of feet is also important as rest of the body.

The best treatment for healing cracked heels is first of all keep yourself hydrated as much as possible, secondly apply ceramide, lactic acid containing creams or lotions. But application must be at night because during night time foots are in rest position , it is best time for healing.

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