As winter approaches in Pakistan, it’s not just the flu that is taking a toll on people. Perhaps one of the most unpleasant effects of winter is the cracked heels it causes. If these cracks called fissures become severe, they could cause bleeding, infection and pain when standing or walking. As compiled from mcdermottfootcare.com, rapidhomeremedies.com and footvitals.com, here is how you can say Adios to cracked feet and rock those stylish stilettos by week end.
Lemon
The acidic property in lemon can be effective in reducing rough skin, which leads to cracking. Its acetic nature removes the dead skin cells to help you get soft and smooth skin. Soak your feet in lemon juice and warm water for approximately 10 minutes. Avoid using very hot water, which can cause your feet to dry out more. Lemon juice is a mild acid that helps to dissolve dead and dry skin. Use a loofah or soft foot brush to scrub your feet after you’re done soaking them. You may want to wait until any cuts or bruising on the heels have healed before trying this.
Rosewater and glycerine
Mixed with rosewater, glycerine can give you smooth and soft heels. The combination makes an efficient home treatment for getting rid of the dry cell build-up of dry cells that causes cracked heels. Glycerine softens the skin, which is why it is widely used in cosmetics. Rose water adds vitamins A, B3, C, D, and E as well as possesses antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Mix equal amounts of both ingredients and rub the mixture directly on your heels before going to bed at night.
Neem
Margosa leaves, commonly known as neem in Pakistan, contain fungicidal properties that are effective in treating cracked heels. The anti-fungal and anti-bacterial leaves, when mixed with the herb turmeric, can do wonders to give you baby soft heels. This remedy is particularly good for bleeding heels. Take a handful of neem leaves and crush them, adding a little water to make a paste. Add three teaspoons of turmeric powder to the neem leaves paste. Apply this emulsion to the cracks. Leave it for half an hour. Wash off your feet with water and pat dry with a soft towel. As turmeric leaves stain, be careful when using this remedy and apply only once daily.
Honey and milk
It’s essential to follow a daily regime of cleansing and moisturising your heels and a weekly regimen of exfoliating them. If you already have cracked heels, exfoliate them daily and moisturise them till they are treated. A natural exfoliating mix made with honey and milk might do the trick for you. Pour one cup of honey and two cups of milk into a foot soaking basin and mix well. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes in this mixture. After about 10 minutes of soaking, massage your heels while they are still soaked in the mixture. Keep at it for about 10 minutes. Then, wash with lukewarm water.
Banana
Ripe bananas are one of the cheapest home remedies for cracked and dry heels. Fruits, especially bananas, have multiple enzymes and other components that can help you get rid of cracks on heels and facilitate the regeneration of new skin. Mash one ripe banana into a smooth paste. Clean your feet thoroughly and apply the banana paste on your feet. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes so that your skin can absorb the natural nourishment. Wash your feet gently with warm water and then soak your feet in cold water for a few minutes. Do this daily for a few weeks to restore soft and smooth heels.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 18th, 2014.
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