Dry cracked heels are unsightly. If you suffer from extremely dry skin on your heels, it can even thicken and bleed. The trick is staying on top of the problem, and doing something about it at the first sign of trouble.

Some women like to visit nail salons. A pedicure typically includes manually filing the feet, to smooth and soften the skin. However, I like to avoid these establishments because of all the potentially toxic chemicals, some of which are linked to increased rates of cancer and miscarriage.

As they age, many women notice the skin on their heels is not as smooth as it used to be. Younger women can have this problem too. But there are easy ways to fight it.

Essential Oil Salve for Dry Cracked Heels

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My first line of defense against dry cracked skin on my heels is an electronic foot file. I use this instead of a pumice bar. Not that pumice bars don’t work. It’s just that this works so much better. I use my electronic foot file a couple of times a week, especially in the warm months.

Then I follow up with a moisturizer. Sometimes I use avocado oil. This is an excellent natural emollient that works wonders with dry skin. Other times I use a moisturizing salve made with beeswax. This is very heavy. So I wouldn’t apply it right before wearing a nice pair of sandals. Instead, it would be good to use before bed. Then you could also put cotton socks on your feet, to really hold in the moisture.

Cracked heels are a result of dry skin that builds up. So the idea is to remove the dead skin cells, before moisturizing. Regular moisturizing is a preventative strategy.

Natural Remedies for Dry Heels

Please know that I’m not a doctor and I can’t give medical advice. If you suffer from chronic health problems, such as diabetes, check with your doctor before undertaking any home remedies for dry cracked heels.

Anything written here is my personal experience only. I like to tell my readers about natural solutions and non-toxic living tips. That’s because I’m well aware that it takes a fair amount of effort to avoid things that are bad for us. I suffer from chronic pain. But I’m able to keep this to a minimum, by paying attention to my lifestyle. A good lifestyle has a huge impact upon your health.

So, rather than run to a nail salon, I take care of my feet at home. This saves money. And it’s healthier. I don’t have to breath potentially toxic chemicals, just because I want my feet to look good. Using an electric foot file is so helpful. But you also need a good moisturizer, and I’ve found that one made with beeswax works best, at least for me.

Ointment for Dry Cracked Heels

You can buy ready made ointments for dry cracked heels. However, if it were me, I’d want one that was all natural and didn’t contain parabens or sulfates. Parabens mimic estrogen. That’s why they’re often referred to as “hormone disruptors.” Sulfates are added to many beauty products. However, because they’re hard on the skin, they may possibly increase irritation. So, if you’re looking for an all natural cracked heel salve, here’s a brand that contains plant-based emollients.

Here is a link to another post that contains more information on essential oils for dry heels, as well as information on a special essential oil blend formulated specifically to treat cracked feet.

Another option is to make your own cracked heel salve. Salves are really easy to make. You only need three ingredients, plus the essential oils of your choice. Below, is my really easy recipe for cracked heel balm. On this site, I use the words “balm” and “salve” interchangeably. I use natural beeswax pellets to make my salves. These give the mixture a firmer texture. Without the beeswax, you’d have a cream.

Heel Balm for Cracked Heels

Here’s a really easy recipe to make a healing salve for your feet, with natural beeswax pellets, shea butter and coconut oil. Adding a little bit of lavender essential oil is a good idea, because this plant-based aromatic is widely regarded for its soothing properties. It also seems to have a special affinity for the skin. So it’s often used in DIY skincare recipes designed to address stubborn problems, such as eczema.

1/4 cup of organic coconut oil. If you can’t find it locally, it’s available here.

1/4 cup of organic shea butter. You may find this at your local health food store. If not, it’s available here.

1/4 cup of small beeswax pellets. You’ll likely find this at a health food store. Or, you can order it online. Beeswax pellets are available here.

Heat these ingredients on the stove, using very low heat. Watch them closely. You don’t want them to smoke. Remove from heat and add 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Pour into a clean glass jar or an empty mint tin. You can also add a drop of geranium essential oil or Roman chamomile oil to the mix to create a synergy blend.

Disclaimer

These statements have not been approved by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use essential oils unless directed to do so by a healthcare professional.