Every spring, at the first hint of warmer weather, we all jump at the chance to bust out shorts and flip-flops—which means it’s time to prep our feet for summer. Often, though, our dry, cracked feet aren’t quite ready to make a reappearance after months of being cooped up. 

What Causes Dry Skin?

When the skin around the heel becomes extremely dry, it loses its “suppleness” and elasticity and often begins to split. This condition is commonly associated with heel calluses. Heel calluses are simply a build-up of dead skin that become hardened and usually uncomfortable. If cracks in the heel develop, they can become quite painful depending on their severity and may bleed and even become infected.

Signs And Symptoms Associated with Dry Skin

As well as the physical appearance of dry and cracked skin on your lower extremities, you may also experience the following symptoms:

• Pain and discomfort
• Itchiness in the area
• Bleeding from the cracks
• Flaky skin

Expert-Approved Solutions 

With warm weather approaching, now is the time to show your feet some love. Our team of experts recommend the following tips & tricks to prep the skin on your feet for warmer weather:

1. Avoid Long, Hot Showers: Stick to warm water to help protect the skin barrier and avoid drawing out too much moisture.
2. Exfoliate Regularly: Just as you exfoliate your face, it’s equally important to exfoliate your feet, helping rid the skin of dead cells and leaving it feeling smooth.
3. Apply A Moisturizer Formulated for Feet: Applying moisturizers can help support the skin barrier and prevent water loss, reducing roughness and leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. Products with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which act as humectants to draw moisture in and ceramides to help support the skin barrier.
4. Wear Socks After Moisturizing: Wear socks after applying a foot cream to help prevent moisture loss.
5. Visit With A Podiatrist: Call our Cromwell, Connecticut office at (860)-632-5499 to schedule an appointment or yearly with our podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas.