Cracked feet, are a common problem for people of all ages, which is caused by lack of moisture.The skin on our feet is naturally dry, unlike the skin on the rest of the body. The skin on our feet has no oil glands, so it relies on hundreds of thousands of sweat glands to keep our feet moisturized.

Other causes include, standing for long hours, using harsh soaps, cold weather, continuous exposure to water, being overweight, and wearing improper footwear. Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, thyroid disease and diabetes can also contribute to this problem.
Some of the signs and symptoms of cracked feet are red or flaky patches, peeling skin, itchiness, bleeding from the cracks and pain, Rough skin, Rash (usually brought on by itching). Problem worsens in winter months.


Here are the top 10 ways to heal cracked feet.

1. SCRUBBING
Scrubbing the hard, dead skin away helps a great deal in getting rid of cracked feet. Before scrubbing, soak your feet in warm soapy water to help soften the skin and make it easier to scrub.

1. Before going to bed, mix some liquid soap in a foot tub filled with warm water.
2. Soak your feet in this warm soapy water for about 20 minutes.
3. Use a pumice stone to gently scrub off the loosened dead skin cells.
4. Rinse off your feet with clean water and pat dry with a soft towel.
5. Apply some foot cream or moisturizer and wear a pair of clean cotton socks overnight.
6. Follow this remedy daily until your cracked feet are healed completely.

2. COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil is another incredible remedy for dry, cracked feet. It helps moisturize your feet and also fights fungal and bacterial infections, thanks to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

1. Before going to sleep, soak your feet in warm water and scrub with a loofah.
2. Dry your feet thoroughly and then apply coconut oil generously on your feet.
3. Put on a pair of clean, cotton socks for the night.
4. The next morning, remove the socks and wash your feet.
5. Do this daily for several days until you are satisfied with the results.
You can also use olive oil in the same way.

3. MENTHOLATED RUB
This is another popular home remedy for cracked heels because of the many essential oils that it contains. It also helps heal toenail fungus .

1. Apply some mentholated rub on clean, dry feet before going to bed.
2. Put on a pair of socks and leave it on overnight.
3. The next morning, remove your socks and wash your feet with warm water.
4. Repeat daily for a few days until the rough skin peels off.

4. LEMON
Lemon juice has a very mild natural acidic property that can help get rid of dead and dry skin cells from your feet. It will also make your skin soft and beautiful.

Add some lemon juice to warm water. Soak your feet in this solution for about 10 minutes. Gently scrub your feet with a soft foot brush. Wash and dry your feet completely and then apply some moisturizer.
Repeat a few times a week.
Another option is to add the juice from one lemon to one teaspoon of petroleum jelly and apply this mixture to your dry and cracked heels. Before applying, it is essential to wash your feet and pat them dry. Follow this remedy once or twice daily.
You can also create a foot scrub by mixing together five tablespoons of sea salt, one tablespoon of olive oil and juice from one lemon. Apply it on your cracked feet. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Follow this remedy once or twice a week to get positive results.

5. Banana
Overripe banana can be put to good use by blending them into a paste and applying on your cracked feet. They will help soften and moisturize your skin.

1. Blend one or two overripe bananas in a blender to form a thick, creamy paste. You can also add half an avocado.
2. Apply this paste on your feet.
3. Leave it on for about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Wash your feet thoroughly, alternating with lukewarm and cold water.
5. Follow this remedy on a daily basis to prevent and treat dry and cracked heels.

6. OATMEAL
You can treat cracked feet with a homemade foot scrub made from oatmeal. It will help remove dead skin and also keep your feet moisturized.

Mix one tablespoons of powdered oatmeal and some jojoba oil to make a thick paste. Apply the paste to your feet, with special attention to the heels and callused areas. Leave it on for about 30 minutes. Rinse it off with cold water and pat dry your feet. Do this every other day until your cracked feet are healed completely.
Another option is to mix one-quarter cup each of honey and olive oil and one-half cup of all-purpose flour in one cup of ground oatmeal. Soak your feet in warm water, exfoliate and then apply this paste. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water and follow with a moisturizer or foot cream. Repeat a few times a week.
These remedies will help restore the skin on your feet to a smooth and supple appearance. If you do not get positive results within a week, consult a podiatrist to find out the exact cause and get proper treatment.

Can Cracked Feet Be Prevented?

Many of the treatment methods mentioned above can also be used to prevent dry skin on your feet. Here are some tips to help you avoid this condition:

Talk to your doctor about over-the-counter lotions, creams, and moisturizers to help you manage the dryness.

Do not rub or scratch the affected area. Instead, try applying cold compresses or ice packs to the itchy area for a few minutes at a time.

Do not wash too often. Avoid bubble baths, fragrant soaps, and other products that may dry your skin. Pat your skin dry when you are finished instead of rubbing the towel over your body. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water. The heat from the water can contribute to your dry feet.

Avoid steam baths if possible.

Moisturize after each shower or every time your feet come into contact with water.

Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Avoid excessive sweating.

Avoid blasting the heater in your home, or use a humidifier to help keep moisture in the air.
Heating units are notorious for drying out the air in a home or office.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can cause the itchy feeling to worsen.