As the colder months approach, dry or cracked heels become a common problem for many of our patients. While we have a damp climate here in Seattle, the indoor air can get surprisingly dry. Prolonged exposure to dry air can cause skin dryness, leaving our heels dry and cracked. People with diabetes are also more prone to developing dry or cracked heels.
Let’s explore what causes this and how you can prevent or treat this discomfort.
Causes of Dry and Cracked Heels in Winter
Although cold, wintry air is a major culprit, certain heating methods such as wood-burning stoves, baseboard heaters, or portable space heaters can dry out the air in your home. If you're constantly using these heating options, the air can lose moisture, making your feet and heels susceptible to dryness and cracking.
Causes of Dry and Cracked Heels in People With Diabetes
Dry skin and cracked heels are especially problematic for people with diabetes and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Normal sweat secretion and oil production that keeps the skin lubricated is impaired, making excessively dry skin much more common in these patients. Dry and cracked skin can more easily break down and cause ulcers, making it imperative for these patients to keep their feet moisturized.
Tips to Prevent and Treat Dry or Cracked Heels
1.![gormel cream for cracked heels]()
Choose the Right Moisturizer
Choose the Right MoisturizerRegularly applying a moisturizer is key to keeping your heels hydrated and smooth. Depending on your diagnosis and level of dryness, we’ll recommend a specific cream. We carry the following moisturizing creams at our office.
- Amerigel
- Gormel Crème – 20% urea
- Probetic-20 – 20% urea
- Adessa Heel Liniment --30% urea
- Heel by Mod Pod – 40% urea
2. Wear Gel Socks
Gel socks are another excellent way to keep your feet hydrated, especially when used in combination with a moisturizing cream. They provide an immediate moisture boost and can accelerate the healing process.
3. Try Vaseline and Socks
Applying Vaseline to your feet before bedtime and covering them with socks is a low-cost solution for retaining moisture overnight. This easy solution is ideal for patients who require extra hydration but want a less expensive option.
4. ![foot soaks for dry feet]()
Use Foot Soaks
Use Foot SoaksOur podiatry office now offers two types of foot soaks specifically designed to help with dry skin, eczema, and dermatitis:
- Tolcylen Therapeutic Foot Soak
- Daily Micro-Cleansing Foot Soak
These soaks contain moisturizers, cleansers, and conditioners to treat mild skin conditions and can provide relief from winter dryness.
5. Consider Your Home’s Air Quality
During winter, cooler air holds less moisture. Even in the Pacific Northwest, the indoor air can become quite dry. Turning up the heat alone won’t solve this problem, and certain types of heat (mentioned above) can further dry out the air.
One of the best ways to combat dry air is by using a humidifier to maintain a healthy moisture level inside your home. It’s also important to make sure your home is sealed to prevent the cold, dry air from outside from coming in.
Conclusion
While winter can be harsh on your skin, taking preventive actions to lock in moisture and hydration can help you avoid cracked heels. Whether you opt for a rich moisturizing lotion, gel socks, or a foot soak, keeping your feet healthy and hydrated will allow you to enjoy the cooler months without discomfort.
