एड़ियाँ फटें तो Cracked heels

Cracked heels are a common problem in winters. Heel fissures, as they are medically referred to as, are usually more a sign of lack of attention to foot care than overexposure or lack of moisturisation.

'Regular application of foot care creams is an ideal solution, as creams today have the essential ingredients such as oil and water, which help keep feet hydrated,' says Shobha Sehgal, head, beauty vertical, VLCC.

Cracked feet can be easily avoided in winters if one starts caring for them September onwards. 'A simple routine to follow for skin is cleansing, toning and moisturising. Likewise, for feet the regime should be cleansing, exfoliation and moisturising,' says Charuvi Gupta, beauty expert, Lotus Herbals.

People who walk barefoot come across this problem of cracked heels often. Always wear slippers at home as dust particles on the floor also tend to make feet rough.

Divita Kanoria, beauty expert, Tathastu says, 'Soaking feet in warm water to which some oil has been added can rid you of any fungal infection, tiredness and oedema. This should be followed with gentle scrubbing to rid feet of dead cells. After wiping them dry, apply a deep moisturiser and keep feet covered with socks.'

One needs to be really cautious when the feet skin turns hard. Hair and beauty expert Blossom Kochhar says, 'Never try to reduce the hard skin on your own using a razor blade or a pair of scissors. It involves the risk of developing an infection.'

Home remedies

One should regularly apply mustard or coconut oil before bathing. Dip feet in a mix of lime juice, tepid water and shampoo. Apply olive oil afterwards.

Take equal quantity of rose water, glycerine and lemon juice. Mix well and apply on washed feet at night to experience soft, supple heels.

Mix gram powder, sugar, salt and a pinch of turmeric powder with cream. Use for exfoliation.

Wear cotton socks and drink lots of water to maintain moisture.

Add a few drops of tea tree oil, juniper berry oil or lavender oil to warm water to get rid of any fungal infection or oedema.

Take 100 gms coconut oil, 5 gms camphor and 20 gms paraffin wax. Melt all and store in a tin. Use on clean feet at night daily. Wash off in the morning.
Hindustan Times