A Skincare Routine for Dry, Cracked Feet

We’ve shown you how to do a step-by-step skincare routine for your face, hands, and even nails, but now we’re extending the TLC to our feet as well. If you struggle with dry, cracked feet, you know how challenging it can be to make them smooth and soft. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Deanne Mraz Robinson, that’s because our feet are hairless. “The lack of hair on our feet means they also lack sebaceous glands and the oils they produce making them naturally dry,” she says.

The lack of oil paired with the friction and pressure of supporting your body weight is a recipe for perpetual dryness. To combat this, we put together a step-by-step skincare routine for your feet that will help keep them looking and feeling soft and moisturized. 

STEP 1: Wash and Soak

Just like any skincare routine, the first step in your foot-care routine should always be to cleanse. Wash your feet with a gentle body wash, like the Kiehl’s Bath and Shower Liquid Body Cleanser. Then, prepare your feet for exfoliation by soaking them in warm water for a few minutes to help loosen any dead surface skin cells. 

STEP 2: Exfoliate

Once your feet are clean, it’s time to exfoliate. If you’re experiencing a significant amount of buildup, Dr. Robinson recommends exfoliating using an at-home peel such as the Baby Foot Mask. “From there you want to maintain healthy skin by gently exfoliating a few times a week,” she says. That being said, stay away from harsh exfoliating tools such as any graters or razors. “It may provide some instant relief, but it can actually cause infection and scarring,” she says. Instead, use exfoliating gloves to scrub while in the shower. “After you shower, you can use a smooth pumice stone to slough off areas most prone to calluses, such as the big toe, ball of the foot and heel.”

STEP 3: Moisturize

Unsurprisingly, moisturizing is the most important part of combating dry, cracked feet. Dr. Robinson recommends moisturizing your feet in the morning and evening for the best results. Try using a rich,  hydrating formula. We recommend the CeraVe Healing Ointment, which is a balm formulated specifically for cracked, extra dry skin. 

STEP 4: Seal in Moisture

Directly after moisturizing, Dr. Robinson recommends putting on clean, cotton socks to help lock in the moisture. Loading up on a thick moisturizer or balm and following up with socks is a great way to treat dry, cracked feet, especially overnight. And if these at-home solutions aren't helping, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist to rule out any underlying medical conditions such as psoriasis, eczema or athlete's foot.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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