Can You Use Hand Cream on Cracked Heels? Uncover the Secret to Softer Feet

Cracked heels are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, cold weather, and excessive pressure on the feet. While there are a number of products available to treat cracked heels, many people wonder if they can simply use hand cream to heal their heels. The answer is yes, you can use hand cream on cracked heels, but it is important to choose a hand cream that is formulated for dry skin and contains ingredients that will help to heal the cracks.

What Causes Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels are caused by a number of factors, including:

• Dry skin: Dry skin is the most common cause of cracked heels. When the skin on your feet is dry, it becomes more prone to cracking.
• Cold weather: Cold weather can also cause cracked heels. When the air is cold, the skin on your feet can become dry and cracked.
• Excessive pressure on the feet: Excessive pressure on the feet can also cause cracked heels. This can happen if you are overweight or if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
• Other factors: Other factors that can contribute to cracked heels include diabetes, thyroid problems, and certain medications.

How to Treat Cracked Heels

There are a number of ways to treat cracked heels, including:

• Moisturize your feet: The most important thing you can do to treat cracked heels is to moisturize your feet regularly. Look for a hand cream that is formulated for dry skin and contains ingredients that will help to heal the cracks.
• Wear socks: Wearing socks can help to keep your feet warm and protected from the elements. This can help to prevent cracked heels from forming.
• Use a pumice stone: A pumice stone can be used to gently remove dead skin from your feet. This can help to smooth out the cracks and make them less noticeable.
• See a doctor: If your cracked heels are severe or do not respond to home treatment, you should see a doctor. Your doctor may recommend a prescription cream or ointment to help heal the cracks.

Can You Use Hand Cream on Cracked Heels?

Yes, you can use hand cream on cracked heels. However, it is important to choose a hand cream that is formulated for dry skin and contains ingredients that will help to heal the cracks. Look for a hand cream that contains ingredients such as:

• Humectants: Humectants are ingredients that help to draw moisture into the skin. This can help to hydrate the skin and prevent it from becoming dry and cracked.
• Emollients: Emollients are ingredients that help to soften the skin. This can help to smooth out the cracks and make them less noticeable.
• Occlusives: Occlusives are ingredients that help to create a barrier on the skin. This can help to protect the skin from the elements and prevent it from becoming dry and cracked.

Which Hand Creams Are Best for Cracked Heels?

There are a number of hand creams that are available over-the-counter that can be used to treat cracked heels. Some of the best hand creams for cracked heels include:

• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: This cream is formulated with ceramides, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it is gentle on the skin.
• Aquaphor Healing Ointment: This ointment is formulated with petrolatum, which is a thick, occlusive ingredient that helps to create a barrier on the skin. It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it is gentle on the skin.
• Eucerin Original Healing Cream: This cream is formulated with ceramides and shea butter, which are both excellent for moisturizing and healing dry skin. It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, so it is gentle on the skin.

How to Apply Hand Cream to Cracked Heels

To apply hand cream to cracked heels, follow these steps:

1. Wash your feet with soap and water.
2. Dry your feet thoroughly.
3. Apply a generous amount of hand cream to your heels.
4. Massage the cream into your heels until it is absorbed.
5. Repeat this process once or twice a day until the cracks are healed.

Prevention

The best way to prevent cracked heels is to keep your feet moisturized. You should also wear socks when you are outside in cold weather and avoid putting excessive pressure on your feet. If you have diabetes or thyroid problems, it is important to manage your condition to prevent cracked heels from developing.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use Vaseline on cracked heels?

A: Yes, you can use Vaseline on cracked heels. Vaseline is a thick, occlusive ingredient that helps to create a barrier on the skin. This can help to protect the skin from the elements and prevent it from becoming dry and cracked.

Q: How often should I apply hand cream to cracked heels?

A: You should apply hand cream to cracked heels once or twice a day until the cracks are healed.

Q: How long does it take for cracked heels to heal?

A: The time it takes for cracked heels to heal depends on the severity of the cracks. Minor cracks may heal within a few days, while more severe cracks may take several weeks to heal.