Cracked Heels in Women: Winter Care Guide | Be Bodywise

Overview

Cracked heels are one of the most common winter skin concerns among Indian women. Cold weather, low humidity, and inadequate foot moisturisation make the skin on the heels dry, rough, and prone to splitting. This guide explains why cracked heels happen, what ingredients help repair them, and how to choose the right foot-care product.

What Are Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heel becomes excessively dry, thick, and less flexible, causing splits or fissures.

Why does this worsen in winter?

• Low moisture in the air increases water loss from skin.
• Closed footwear and friction damage the heel barrier.
• Hot showers strip oils, making skin rougher.
• Lack of regular foot moisturisation leads to thick, dry layers called calluses.

Why Do Women Get Cracked Heels More Often?

• Long hours in sandals or open footwear.
• Hormonal dryness or naturally low oil production.
• Standing for long periods.
• Use of harsh soaps or hot water.
• Ignoring early signs like dryness, whitening, or rough patches.

Cracked heels form when thick, dry skin loses moisture and flexibility, causing deep splits in the heel area.

Common Everyday Habits That Worsen Cracked Heels

• Walking barefoot, especially on hard floors.
• Hot water baths, which remove natural oils.
• Using abrasive foot files aggressively, leading to micro-tears.
• Skipping moisturiser, especially after bathing.
• Wearing open slippers during winter, which increases dryness.

What to Look for in a Foot Cream or Foot Roll-On

 Choose products with:

• Urea (10%–30%) - hydrates, softens thick skin, and supports exfoliation.
• Lactic Acid or AHA blends - remove dead skin layers gently.
• Ceramides and oils - repair the barrier and reduce roughness.
• Occlusives like petrolatum or shea butter - lock in moisture for long hours.
• Non-fragrant, dermatologically safe formulations - prevent irritation.

Why is urea important for cracked heels?

Urea attracts water into the skin and softens hard, callused areas, making it ideal for rough heels

Which Foot-Care Products to Choose for Cracked Heels?

For mild to moderate dryness:

• Look for urea around 20%, combined with hydrating agents and emollients.
• Works for early-stage roughness and dry heels.

For severe cracks, thick calluses, or persistent roughness:

• Choose stronger formulations with urea around 30%.
• Helps exfoliate hardened layers while deeply hydrating the heel skin.

These ingredient ranges are commonly recommended by dermatologists for cracked heels, and they naturally align with concerns such as roughness, thick calluses, and winter dryness.

Women dealing with varying levels of heel dryness often choose targeted urea-based roll-ons-like the Be Bodywise 20% Urea Foot Roll-On for moderate dryness or the Be Bodywise 30% Urea Foot Roll-On for more severe cracks. These are designed for controlled application and barrier repair in dry winter conditions.

How to Use a Foot Roll-On for Cracked Heels (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Clean and dry your feet before application.
2. Roll the product directly onto the heels, focusing on cracked or hard areas.
3. Allow it to absorb for 2–3 minutes.
4. Wear socks to lock in moisture, especially at night.
5. Use daily for best results; mild cracks usually improve within 7–10 days.

FAQs

Q: Can cracked heels heal on their own?

Usually not. They require consistent moisturisation and barrier repair.

Q: Is urea safe for daily use on heels?

Yes. Urea between 20%–30% is commonly used for dry, thick, or cracked skin on feet.

Q: Why do cracks come back in winter?

Moisture levels drop, and skin dries faster. Regular hydration prevents recurrence.

Q: Should I exfoliate cracked heels?

Gentle exfoliation helps, but avoid over-scrubbing. Urea-based products offer controlled exfoliation.