How to Soften Cracked Heels Overnight with Oil

Open sandals and chappals, dusty streets, washing feet several times a day for wudu, and dry winter air: cracked heels are incredibly common in Pakistan. The good news is that a simple routine, done consistently, makes a real difference to how heels look and feel.

Why heels crack

The skin on your heels is thick and has few oil glands. When it dries out, it loses flexibility, and the pressure of walking makes it split, much like dry earth. Several things make it worse:

• Open-back footwear, which lets the heel pad spread with each step.
• Standing for long periods.
• Frequent washing, especially with hot water and soap.
• Dry weather and dust.
• Not moisturising the feet at all, which is surprisingly common.

The overnight routine

1. Soak (10 minutes). Soak your feet in warm water to soften the skin. A spoonful of mild soap is optional.
2. Exfoliate gently. Use a pumice stone or foot file on damp skin, using light strokes. Don't try to remove everything at once.
3. Rinse and dry. Pat your feet dry, leaving them slightly damp.
4. Oil. Massage a generous amount of walnut oil into your heels and the soles of your feet.
5. Seal. Put on clean cotton socks and leave them on overnight.

In the morning, heels will feel noticeably softer. Repeat every night for a week, then two or three times a week to maintain.

Why oil and socks work

Soaking softens the hard skin and fills it with water. Oil then forms a protective layer that slows that water from escaping, and socks keep the oil on your feet (rather than on your sheets) and add gentle warmth. Overnight, the skin has hours to soften without the pressure of walking.

Daytime care

• Wear closed shoes with socks when you can, especially in dusty conditions.
• After washing your feet, pat dry and rub in a drop of almond oil.
• Avoid very hot water when washing feet.
• Choose footwear with a back strap or closed heel.

How long until heels improve?

Most people feel softer heels after the first night. Shallow cracks usually look much better within one to two weeks of nightly care. Deep cracks take longer, and once heels are smooth, you'll need to keep up a lighter routine two or three times a week, or the dryness comes back.

When to see a doctor

If cracks are deep, bleeding, painful or show signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling or pus), or if you have diabetes or poor circulation, see a doctor rather than treating your feet at home.

Looking for more ways to care for very dry skin? Read walnut oil for dry skin and our winter skin care routine.