Why does it feel and look like you’ve been living in a desert no matter how much moisturizer you put on your feet? It is understandable that maintaining soft and smooth feet can be difficult because the skin on the feet has less oil glands to keep them hydrated. If you have dry, cracked, hard heels, that goes double.
Dry, cracked feet and heels can be caused by a variety of factors, including cold, dry weather, standing for extended periods of time, walking a lot, wearing shoes that are too tight, and using harsh detergents. However, so may skin disorders including psoriasis, eczema, and athlete’s foot. Dry, cracked foot skin can also result from changes in the feet brought on by diabetes.
- A pumice stone or foot scrub
Dry, dead skin is removed via exfoliation, exposing smoother, softer skin beneath. When the skin is soft, you can exfoliate with a pumice stone or an over-the-counter foot scrub, ideally after taking a warm water bath, shower, or foot soak (add a little Epsom salt for good measure). Avoid using too much force while using a pumice stone. When you’re finished, apply a moisturizing moisturizer.
If you have open wounds or sores on your feet, avoid exfoliating them.
- A foot file or rasp
A foot file is a device that mechanically exfoliates the skin. It has a handle and an abrasive metal surface. There are foot files that resemble cheese graters. Generally speaking, these should only be used on calloused heels, if at all, as they may be extremely harsh on the foot.
