Best Creams for Dry and Cracked Heels: A Podiatrist's Guide
Best Creams for Dry and Cracked Heels: A Podiatrist's Guide
Dry, rough and cracked heels are one of the most common foot concerns we see. While they may start as a cosmetic issue, cracked heels can become uncomfortable and, in severe cases, develop painful fissures that make walking difficult.
The good news is that the right foot cream can make a significant difference.
In this guide, we'll explain what causes dry and cracked heels, what ingredients to look for and which creams may be most suitable depending on the severity of your skin condition.
Why Do Heels Become Dry and Cracked?
The skin on the heels is naturally thicker than other parts of the body and is exposed to significant pressure every day.
Common causes of dry and cracked heels include:
Standing for long periods
Walking barefoot
Open-backed footwear
Cold or dry weather
Ageing skin
Obesity
Diabetes
Reduced skin hydration
Build-up of hard skin and callus
As the skin loses moisture, it becomes less flexible. Pressure on the heel can then cause the skin to split, leading to cracks and fissures.
What Ingredients Should You Look For?
Urea
Urea is one of the most effective ingredients available for dry feet and cracked heels.
It works by:
Drawing moisture into the skin
Improving hydration
Softening rough skin
Helping reduce callus build-up
Higher concentrations of urea are generally recommended for more severe dryness and thicker skin.
Ceramides
Ceramides help support the skin's natural protective barrier and assist with moisture retention.
They can be particularly beneficial for people with very dry skin.
Glycerin
Glycerin is a powerful moisturising ingredient that helps attract water into the skin.
Shea Butter and Natural Oils
Ingredients such as shea butter and macadamia oil help nourish and condition dry skin while improving comfort.
Which Urea Strength Should You Choose?
15% Urea
Best for:
Mild dry skin
Rough heels
Daily maintenance
Ongoing foot care
Products such as Walkers Urea 15 Foot Cream provide excellent everyday hydration and are often used to prevent dryness from returning.
25% Urea
Best for:
Moderate dryness
Cracked heels
Rough skin
Callus build-up
Walkers Urea 25 ULTRA Cream and Restorate Intensive Foot Spray are excellent options when additional softening and hydration are required.
30% Urea
Best for:
Severe dryness
Thick callus
Cracked heels
Stubborn hard skin
Restorate Revive Extra Strength Foot & Heel Balm is designed for people needing more intensive treatment.
40% Urea
Best for:
Extremely thick callus
Very stubborn heel cracks
Heavy hard skin build-up
Walkers Urea 40 Foot Gel provides the highest concentration of urea within the Walker's range.
Our Recommended Creams for Dry and Cracked Heels
Best Daily Moisturiser
Walkers Urea 15 Foot Cream
A popular daily moisturiser that helps maintain soft, hydrated feet and prevent dryness from returning.
Best All-Round Cracked Heel Cream
Walkers Urea 25 ULTRA Cream
Combining 25% urea with ceramides, this cream helps soften rough skin while supporting the skin's natural barrier.
Best for Severe Dryness
Restorate Revive 30% Urea Foot & Heel Balm
Developed by Australian podiatrists for stubborn dry skin, cracked heels and heavy callus.
Best for Hard-to-Reach Feet
Restorate Intensive Foot Spray
A unique 25% urea spray that can be applied upside down without needing to massage the product into the skin.
Best Protective Salve
Gehwol Med Salve for Cracked Skin
A rich ointment that helps protect and condition severely dry and cracked skin.
Tips for Improving Cracked Heels
In addition to using a suitable foot cream:
Apply moisturiser daily
Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
Wear supportive footwear
Remove thickened skin carefully with a foot file
Stay hydrated
Address foot problems early before cracks deepen
Consistency is often the most important factor. Even the best foot cream will not achieve optimal results if used only occasionally.
When Should You Seek Professional Advice?
If cracks become painful, begin bleeding, show signs of infection or fail to improve despite regular treatment, professional assessment may be required.
People with diabetes should seek prompt advice regarding any skin changes, wounds or heel cracks.
Final Thoughts
The best cream for dry and cracked heels depends on the severity of the problem.
For everyday maintenance, a 15% urea cream is often sufficient. As dryness, callus and cracking become more severe, higher-strength formulations such as 25%, 30% and 40% urea creams may provide additional benefits.
The key is choosing the right strength and using it consistently as part of your regular foot care routine.
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