Feet aren’t essentially the most glamorous topic, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need your attention — especially after they’re looking or feeling off. Within the specific-yet-common case of dry, cracked heelsthe encouraging news is that there are many easy (and fast!) ways to heal them. Where it gets more complicated is determining why you could be coping with dryness and cracks in the primary place.

A visit to the nail salon for a pedicure with the works may suffice for one person, while one other might require a health worker’s input. To make clear the foundation causes of your dry, cracked heels, we consulted a board-certified podiatrist and two dermatologists, looking for their skilled insights. They broke down primary causes and practical solutions that promise fast-as-possible results and relief so you possibly can put your best foot forward this sandal season and beyond. Keep reading for answers to your most pressing questions.

1. Anne SharkeyDPM, is a podiatrist at North Austin Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin.
2. Leah AnsellMD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Treiber Dermatology Associates in Recent York City.
3. Rina Weimann (Allawh)MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

• What causes dry, cracked heels?
• When should I be concerned about cracked heels?
• How do I heal my cracked heels?

Before delving too deeply into WebMD (and maybe spiraling right into a panic), you need to know that dry, cracked heels aren’t typically a significant concern but relatively only a buildup of the highest layer of skin resulting from friction and regular use, in line with Leah AnsellMD, a board-certified dermatologist at Treiber Dermatology Associates in Recent York City. And you are not alone — it’s “quite common in adults,” she says.

Your dry, cracked heels might also be unintended effects of a skin condition, two of essentially the most common being psoriasis or eczema. The previous often presents with red, inflamed skin and small fluid-filled bumps, says Rina Weimann (Allawh)MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Pennsylvania. “If left untreated, it could possibly result in significant dryness and linear ‘knife-like’ cuts on the heels generally known as fissures, resembling extraordinary cracked heels,” she adds. Eczema, alternatively, will be trickier to discover since it presents as cracked and scaly patches that may resemble regular dryness or cracking.