
7 Best Ways to Heal Dry, Cracked Heels: Real Solutions That Work
, by ActiveWork Team, 3 min reading time
, by ActiveWork Team, 3 min reading time
Tired of painful, dry, cracked heels? Discover trusted tips, home remedies, and top-rated products that actually work—no jargon, just real relief.
Let’s face it: dry, cracked heels aren't just uncomfortable—they can be downright painful and could happen across four seasons.
If you’ve ever looked down and noticed your heels flaking, splitting, or feeling rough like sandpaper, you’re not alone. Our heels take a beating every day, and when we don’t give them a little TLC, they let us know.
Cracks in the skin often come from a mix of things: standing for long hours, wearing open-backed shoes, aging skin, or just not moisturizing enough.
The good news? You don’t have to live with them. There are simple, effective ways to heal dry, cracked heels—and keep them soft and healthy for the long run.
These innovative heel socks are like regular socks but designed with soft silicone shields that work to keep your heel moisturized and shielded from dryness and cracking all day long.
Perfect for those who are constantly on their feet, whether it be at work or at home, these socks provide a comfortable fit that won't interfere with your daily activities.
Best pick: ActiveWork’s ActiveShield Heel Socks - provides a variety of heel sock options to wear in the daytime across four seasons.
A popular option is the toeless moisturizing socks. You could just apply some creams on your heels, slip them on before bed, and by morning, your heels feel smoother and more hydrated.
Try This: Dr. Frederick's Original Moisturizing Heel Socks – A go-to option with breathable fabric and gel zones right where you need them.
When regular lotion isn’t cutting it, you need something stronger. Creams that contain urea or lactic acid exfoliate dead skin and add intense moisture. They're especially helpful if your skin feels thick and rough.
Our Pick: Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair – This cream is dermatologist-recommended and gets real results in just a few days.
Before your moisturizer can work its magic, you need to clear the path. A quick rub with a pumice stone or foot file after a shower can make a big difference. Just don’t go overboard—gentle is key.
Helpful Tip: Exfoliate 2-3 times a week, not daily. Overdoing it can actually make cracking worse.
Backless shoes, flip-flops, and worn-out soles can make heel cracks worse. Try switching to shoes with a closed heel and cushioned sole for better support.
Pro Tip: Look for shoes that keep your heel supported and your foot aligned—you’ll notice the difference.
A few minutes before bed can go a long way. Wash your feet, exfoliate if needed, apply a thick cream, and wear socks overnight to lock in moisture. Doing this consistently is what really helps you heal and prevent cracked heels for good.
Prefer a more natural route? Coconut oil, honey, and aloe vera all have skin-healing properties. Apply them before bed and cover with socks for a DIY treatment that works surprisingly well.
Bonus Tip: If you’re using coconut oil or honey, lay a towel down—things can get slippery!
Cracked heels don’t heal overnight, but with the right products and a little consistency, your feet can feel soft and comfortable again. Whether you opt for high-tech moisturizing socks, a proven urea cream, or your favorite natural remedy, what matters is taking action—and sticking with it.
Your feet work hard. Give them some love.