If your heels are fine all summer but turn dry and rough as soon as the weather cools, that's no coincidence. Cracked heels in winter are very common, and it's not just the cold: several winter habits hit your heels at once. The good news is that prevention is easy if you start early.
Why cracked heels in winter get worse
Heel skin is thick and has no oil glands, so it depends entirely on moisture from outside. In winter that moisture drops on every front. Cold, dry air and heaters pull water from the skin. Long hot showers and hot foot soaks strip natural oils. And because we feel less thirsty in the cold, we drink less water. Thick heel skin loses its flexibility and splits under the pressure of walking.
Slippers and cold floors
Many of us wear open-back slippers at home all year, and tiled floors get very cold in winter. Open backs let the heel spread with every step, the slipper edge rubs and thickens the skin, and cold floors dry it further. A closed-back slipper, or cotton socks under your slipper, makes a real difference.
Six daily habits that prevent cracks
1. Use lukewarm, not hot, water and keep showers to 5–10 minutes.
2. Pat dry, including between your toes.
3. Moisturize within five minutes, while skin is still slightly damp.
4. Choose a balm with urea, which softens thick skin and draws in water.
5. Wear closed slippers or cotton socks at home.
6. Drink water even when you're not thirsty.
On your feet all day? Teachers, nurses, pharmacists and anyone who stands for hours put extra pressure on their heels. Choose closed-back shoes with a cushioned sole, wear clean cotton socks, keep your foot balm in your bag for a quick top-up, and see a doctor if the heel itself hurts rather than just feeling dry.
A 3-minute night routine
1. Wash your feet in lukewarm water and dry them well.
2. Glide foot balm generously over heels and edges.
3. Put on cotton socks until morning.
The Silky Steps Bundle includes both Silk Step balms, Tinted Pink and Transparent, with 20% urea, salicylic acid and nourishing oils and butters. Keep one by your bed and one in your bag.
When you need treatment, not just prevention
If cracks are already deep, the skin is very thick, or walking hurts, move to the full routine in our cracked heels treatment guide. See a doctor if cracks bleed, show redness, swelling, warmth or pus, if you itch and peel between your toes, or if nothing improves in 2–3 weeks.
Important: If you have diabetes, poor circulation or numbness in your feet, or deep or infected cracks, talk to your doctor before using any exfoliating product.
Your heels are part of your whole winter routine; see our winter skincare routine for face and lips too. More from the American Academy of Dermatology: how to care for dry, cracked heels.
Recommended product
Silky Steps Bundle — two Silk Step balms (Tinted Pink and Transparent) with 20% urea and salicylic acid: one for home, one for your bag, for less than buying them separately. Shop the bundle.
FAQ
Wool or cotton socks?
Cotton for sleep: it breathes and keeps the balm on your skin.
Should I soak my feet before applying balm?
A short lukewarm soak of 5–10 minutes can soften skin before gentle exfoliation, but long hot soaks dry heels out. If you have diabetes, don't soak your feet without your doctor's advice.
How often should I apply balm in winter?
Twice a day: in the morning after your shower and at night before socks.
Should I keep going after winter?
Yes, but once a night is usually enough. Sandals and sand affect heels in summer too.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist.