Cracked heels — also known as heel fissures — are not just a cosmetic issue. They can be uncomfortable, painful, and even lead to infections if left untreated. Thankfully, with the right care routine and a few reliable products, you can heal cracked heels fast and keep them soft and smooth all year round.
What Causes Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels occur when the skin on your heels becomes dry and thick, and then splits open under pressure. Common causes include:
- Walking barefoot or in open-backed shoes
- Standing for long periods
- Cold or dry weather
- Lack of proper hydration
- Skin conditions like eczema or athlete’s foot
Cracks can range from minor lines to deep splits that bleed and hurt when you walk. The key is early treatment and consistent care.
Step-by-Step Routine to Heal Cracked Heels Fast
1. Soak and Exfoliate
Start your healing routine with a warm foot soak. This helps soften tough skin and prepare it for exfoliation. Use a basin of warm water mixed with Epsom salts or a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or lavender for antibacterial and soothing effects.
After soaking for 10–15 minutes, gently scrub your heels using a foot file, pumice stone, or electric callus remover. This removes dead skin buildup and allows moisturizing products to penetrate more deeply.
2. Apply a Rich Healing Cream
This is the most important step. Use a thick, fast-absorbing heel balm designed specifically for cracked feet. We recommend O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet, a popular choice among both podiatrists and customers for its high concentration of moisturizers and long-lasting results. It contains allantoin, which helps penetrate thick skin and create a protective barrier.
Other great options include:
- Flexitol Heel Balm (contains urea for deep hydration)
- Eucerin Advanced Repair Foot Cream
Apply the cream generously, especially before bed.
3. Lock In Moisture With Socks
After applying your foot cream, put on moisture-locking socks or even a clean pair of cotton socks. This step helps trap the product on your skin and prevents it from rubbing off on sheets or furniture. For faster results, use gel heel socks infused with medical-grade silicone.
Bonus Tips for Prevention
Once your heels are healed, consistency is key to keeping them that way. Follow these tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water daily
- Moisturize your feet every night before bed
- Avoid walking barefoot, especially on hard or rough surfaces
- Wear shoes with good heel support
Final Thoughts
Cracked heels can be painful, but with daily care and the right products, healing doesn’t have to take weeks. Just soak, exfoliate, moisturize, and protect — and you’ll start seeing results in as little as a few days.
Looking for the best heel repair creams? Check out our top recommendations on Amazon and say goodbye to dry, cracked feet for good.