Cold weather, central heating and thick boots can all leave heels dry and rough. If the skin gets too dry and thick, it can split, which can be painful and occasionally lead to infection.
Why winter makes it worse
Cold air holds less moisture, and central heating dries the air indoors even more. Hot baths feel lovely but strip natural oils from the skin. Hard skin that has built up over summer from sandals can also dry out and crack.
Daily care that helps
- Apply a thick foot cream to your heels every night, ideally one with urea
- Pop on cotton socks after moisturising to help it soak in
- Keep showers and baths warm rather than very hot
- Drink plenty of water
- Gently file rough skin once or twice a week
When to get help
If the cracks are deep, bleeding or painful, it's time to book in. We gently remove the hard, cracked skin so new skin can heal, and give you a simple home care routine. Read more on our cracked heels page.
If you have diabetes, get cracked heels looked at promptly, as small breaks in the skin can be slow to heal. See your GP if a crack looks infected, with redness, heat, swelling or pus.
Footwear for healthier heels
Shoes with a closed back help hold the fat pad under your heel in place, which reduces the pressure that leads to cracks. Open backed slippers, mules and backless sandals let the heel spread out with every step, so the skin thickens and splits more easily. In winter, choose warm slippers with a back and a firm sole, and change out of damp boots as soon as you can.
Quick answers
How long do cracked heels take to heal?
Mild cracks often improve within a week or two of regular moisturising. Deeper cracks may need treatment first.
Should I use a foot file on cracked heels?
Gently, on dry skin, and never on open or bleeding cracks.
Are cracked heels a sign of something serious?
Usually not, but get them checked if you have diabetes or they won't heal.