Dry skin can affect other parts of the body, even your feet, in addition to just the face. For instance, dry, irritated heels might develop severe cracks and deep, agonizing cuts or fissures.

According to board-certified dermatologists dry heels can also be caused by hot showers and abrasive soaps that damage your natural skin barrier, which can get worse in the winter because of lower humidity levels.

Dermatologists advise exfoliating, moisturizing, and staying away from long, hot baths and strong smells for treating fissures.

we’ve selected their most important advice on what to think about when looking for topical medications.

According to experts, look for hydrating components like petroleum jelly, glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and colloidal oatmeal that can help rebuild your skin’s barrier and seal it in moisture. Take attention to exfoliants like urea, salicylic acid, and ammonium lactate that aid in removing extra dry skin.

Avoid strong soaps and scents because they can damage your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Use hydrating, fragrance-free soaps, and washes instead.

How to treat dry, cracked heels

Prevention is the key when it comes to dry heels: According to SPECIALIST, a room humidifier may be beneficial as the temperature drops. Use quick, warm baths or showers with non-fragranced moisturizing products to help your skin’s moisture barrier instead of long, hot showers.

To prevent the skin from drying out, experts advised bathing your feet with non-foaming, moisturizing cleansers (ideally with a cream or milk consistency).
To help your skin retain some of the water after your bath or shower, you should use a moisturizer right away. According to Goldman, you should moisturize your heels at least twice each day.
a natural anti-inflammatory that soothes dry, cracked skin — and vitamin E, an antioxidant that promotes healthy cell growth and protects the skin from damage.
After moisturizing and exfoliating (more on that below), “you should apply a thick, occlusive emollient such as petroleum jelly to lock in moisture