How to Heal Dry, Cracked Heels and Help Keep Them From Coming Back

Dry, cracked heels can start as a cosmetic annoyance and become genuinely uncomfortable when the skin develops deep fissures. The heels take pressure with every step, so once the skin becomes thick, dry, and split, walking can make those cracks harder to ignore.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a combination of shorter bathing, gentle cleansing, frequent moisturizing, protecting heel cracks, and wearing properly fitting footwear.[1] For ongoing moisture and barrier support, SumLab's solution is Cutemol® Emollient Cream — a rich emollient specifically positioned for severely dry feet, soles, and heels.

Why Do Heels Crack?

Heel skin can become dry for the same reasons as dry skin elsewhere: low humidity, hot water, harsh cleansers, and loss of moisture from the outer layer of skin.[3] But heels also face friction and pressure from standing, walking, and footwear.

The AAD notes that dry, cracked heels are particularly common in winter and can be worsened by factors such as long, hot showers, walking barefoot, and open-heeled or poorly fitting shoes.[1]

Step 1: Stop Over-Drying the Skin

Long showers and hot water can remove natural oils and worsen dryness. The AAD recommends limiting baths and showers to about 5 to 10 minutes and using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.[1] Mayo Clinic similarly recommends warm rather than hot water and limiting bathing time.[4]

After bathing, pat the feet dry rather than rubbing them aggressively. The goal is to avoid creating more friction on skin that is already vulnerable.

Step 2: Moisturize Immediately

Timing matters. Dermatologists recommend applying moisturizer soon after bathing, when there is still some moisture in the skin.[1][5] This helps reduce water loss as the skin dries.

For severely dry heels, a light lotion may not be enough. The AAD generally recommends a cream or ointment for overly dry skin because these forms tend to hold more moisture in the skin than lotions.[5]

The SumLab Solution: Cutemol® Emollient Cream for Heels and Soles

Cutemol® Emollient Cream is formulated as a rich emollient with natural beeswax and is intended for moderate to severe dryness, including feet, soles, and heels. According to SumLab, the formulation stays on the skin longer and leaves a protective barrier that helps manage water loss and maintain the natural skin barrier.

Use Cutemol® after your shower or bath while the heel skin is still slightly damp. Then reapply later in the day whenever the heels begin to feel tight or rough. A generous application before bed is particularly useful because the product can remain on the skin during a long period with less friction and washing.

If you have sensitive skin and prefer a fragrance-free option, Cutemol® Sensitive Emollient Cream is also positioned by SumLab for severe dry skin, including soles and heels.

Step 3: Protect Existing Cracks

For painful heel fissures, the AAD notes that a liquid bandage can help create a protective barrier over cracks, reduce pain, and help keep germs out.[1] If a crack is deep, bleeding, showing signs of infection, or not improving, seek medical care.

Moisturizing does not replace wound care for a significant open fissure. Think of Cutemol® as the ongoing solution for the surrounding dry skin and barrier support while you appropriately protect any open crack.

Step 4: Look at Your Shoes

Footwear can either protect dry heels or make the problem harder to resolve. The AAD advises avoiding open-heeled shoes, worn-out shoes, and footwear that does not fit properly when you have cracked heels.[1]

Choose shoes that support and cover the heel, especially while the skin is recovering. At home, avoid long periods of barefoot walking on hard surfaces if it increases discomfort or friction.

A Nighttime Cracked-Heel Routine

1. Wash or shower with warm water rather than hot water.[1][4]
2. Pat the feet dry, leaving the heels slightly damp.
3. Apply a generous layer of Cutemol® Emollient Cream across the heel, sole, and any other rough areas.
4. Put on clean cotton socks to reduce transfer to bedding and help keep the product in contact with the skin.
5. Repeat consistently, not only when the cracks become painful. Prevention is easier when you maintain the skin barrier before severe fissures return.

When to See a Dermatologist or Other Healthcare Professional

Cracked heels can sometimes be associated with medical conditions, including diabetes. The AAD recommends seeing a board-certified dermatologist if heel cracks are severe or do not improve with home care.[1]

Seek care sooner if you notice redness spreading around a crack, warmth, swelling, drainage, increasing pain, or other signs of infection.

The Bottom Line

The most effective cracked-heel routine combines fewer drying triggers, proper footwear, protection of open fissures, and consistent use of a rich moisturizer. Make Cutemol® Emollient Cream the core SumLab solution for helping severely dry heel and sole skin retain moisture and stay protected day after day.

SumLab content is educational and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized care.