You’ve kept your dry, cracked feet wrapped up in socks, slippers and boots these last few months. Now, the weather’s getting warmer and chances are you’ll be showing your feet in sandals and flip flops soon. Are your feet ready?
Winter plays havoc with skin and feet suffer too. Cold temperatures and low humidity are contributing factors but some of us are just more susceptible. If sore and cracked heels are causing you woe, then here’s what to do:
Tip #1: Exfoliate.
Remove the build-up of dead, dry skin that makes feet look unattractive. Exfoliation also helps speed up the absorption of moisturizing ingredients you apply later. Try smoothing away roughness with a pumice stone in the shower or bath then applying an exfoliating cream with urea or lactic acid to whisk away roughness. Epilyt AHA Lotion is formulated with lactic acid to exfoliate and glycerin to moisturize.
Tip 2: Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize.
When it comes to dry skin, feet are no exception. Apply a moisturizer as often as needed. I like to slather some on at night and follow with a pair of socks to make sure the moisturizer stays on my feet and not on my sheets. Come morning, my feet look and feel amazing. Try Uremol 20 Cream which contains 20% urea to exfoliate AND moisturize, leaving feet soft and smooth.
Tip 3: Cover Up.
Walking around with bare feet, whether in summer or winter only exacerbates the problem. Protect your feet from hard floors and dry air by wearing slippers and socks. Exfoliating and moisturizing can help, but you can minimize their need by looking after your tootsies in the first place.
Tip 4: Supplement.
Studies have shown that a deficiency of essential fatty acids (EFAs) may result in dry skin including eczema. If despite all your efforts, your feet just won’t cooperate, then consider upping your consumption of foods rich in EFAs. In addition to healthier skin, you’ll reap the rewards of a healthy heart and improved mood amongst other benefits. Seafood and nuts are a good source of EFAs, but you may want to supplement with fish oil supplements or evening primrose oil. Check in with your physican or pharmacist for an appropriate dose.
Dry feet are more of a cosmetic than medical problem. However, if you develop deep fissures or cracks that are painful and/or bleed, then it’s time to see your physician to rule out an infection or something more serious. You should also check-in if you have diabetes, skin or circulation problems or any other health condition.
