10 reasons why heel leather cracks

Member of the Russian Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons.

They bring terrible discomfort. It is hard to wear any shoes, pain appears when walking and even standing, an unpleasant odor may appear. Sometimes the cracks become infected, and then the problem turns into a disease. Most of us think that this is simply insufficient or inappropriate foot care. But going to a pedicure does not always solve this problem.

1. Wrong shoes

The gait, posture, and health not only of the feet, but of the whole organism as a whole depend on what kind of shoes we wear. Most often, oversized shoes, narrow shoes, high heels or … an absolutely flat sole lead to cracks on the heels. As soon as the skin has changed color (turned yellowish or white), this is a reason to sound the alarm! No less important is the material from which the shoes are made.

2. Socks and tights made of synthetic materials

Now it is fashionable to wear socks, beautiful, designer, elastic knee-highs and tights. But often they are made of synthetic materials. In them, the skin does not breathe at all, the legs sweat, and cracks appear. The more natural thread (cotton or wool) in the tights, the safer they are. The thinner and more beautiful the tights, the more dangerous they are for the skin, as any synthetics that create static electricity are harmful.

If you wear stockings and nylon tights every day, there is a high probability of cracks and so-called corns.

3. Lack of vitamins and minerals

Dry skin on the heels can occur due to a lack of vitamins A, B and E. Deficiency of retinol and tocopherol is accompanied by peeling, sores in the corners of the lips and other unpleasant symptoms. Lack of calcium, iron and zinc is also dangerous. Deficiency of omega-3 and omega-6 also leads to dry skin.

4. Lack of moisture

Cracked heels are caused by moisture loss. With insufficient moisture, the cells of the epidermis shrink, and an empty space forms between them. If you ignore this problem, over time, the cracks begin to bleed.

Dry skin can also make the heel feel sensitive, tight, rough and itchy, and it loses too much oil and water. Cold winter air, the use of air conditioners or stoves, frequent baths with hot water, harsh soap are what prevent our feet from being beautiful.

5. Diseases of the skin

If you notice regular cracks in the heels, this may indicate psoriasis, mycosis of the legs or ichthyosis. Let’s not forget about eczema.

Mycosis, in a simple way, a fungus can affect not only nails, but also heels. Having settled on the feet, it destroys the top layer of the skin, penetrating deeper and deeper. By the way, a crack may be the only symptom of skin fungus.

Psoriasis Is a skin disorder that causes crunchy, flaky, reddish patches of skin with scales that appear silvery. They can sometimes be painful and itchy. Psoriasis can develop anywhere on the body, including the knees, elbows, lower back, or scalp. While it is not clear what exactly causes this condition, it is believed that the offending system is a bug in the immune system that mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. There is even such a type of disease – plantar psoriasis. The main cause of the problem is external damage to the skin with an unfavorable external environment or various allergens. Very often, plantar psoriasis is diagnosed in people who are engaged in hard physical labor.

Ichthyosis Is a hereditary skin disease in which the keratinization process is disrupted. Dry skin peels off, and in severe cases of the disease, scales and cracks form on it.

Eczema. This term is used to describe various types of skin edema. Atopic eczema is the most common type and it results in dry, red, itchy, cracked skin. It can develop on any part of your body, including your legs, arms, under your knees, on the inside of your elbows, on your scalp or face. In these cases, of course, you need to see a doctor, since all home remedies will not solve the problem and will only bring a temporary effect or drive the cause inside.

6. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Any problems of the gastrointestinal tract are always displayed on the person’s appearance. And the skin always suffers. On the heels, it is especially dry, so it can crack due to gastritis, ulcers, colitis and other diseases.

Gastritis. If you are constantly suffering from heartburn, dry mouth, cracks in the corners of the lips and on the heels – run to the gastroenterologist. Perhaps the reason for all this “splendor” is gastritis.

Renal failure. When I talk about this, I usually hear that there is no connection between cracks and this disease. But they are. With renal failure, an increase in the level of uric acid in the blood is observed. Because of this, the speed of its movement along the vascular bed slows down. The trophism of tissues is disturbed, the skin becomes drier and coarser. And here a visit to the doctor is necessary.

7. Pathology of the thyroid gland

A decrease in the function of the thyroid gland can lead to a decrease in the secretion of sebum (sebum), more active work of the sweat glands, and a decrease in metabolism. Because of this, cracks can occur: in this case, the lesser of evils.

8. Diabetes

With diabetes mellitus, the risk of cracking is quite high. And getting rid of them is very, very difficult. The increased sugar level creates a favorable environment for the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms, damages the nerves and provokes a lack of moisture in the organism. The result is skin problems. In these cases, you should see an endocrinologist.

9. Varicose veins

Permanent cracks in the heels are a reason to visit a phlebologist. They may indicate hidden varicose veins. The affected vessels deep under the skin are not visible. But due to metabolic disorders, the skin dries up, and we see cracks on the heels. See a vascular surgeon.

10. Sunburn

You may already know that the sun’s harmful UV rays can damage your skin. Spend a lot of time in the sun and you will develop red, sore skin that begins to peel off after a few days. And although we do not understand this, the legs can also suffer from sunburn.

PREVENTION

1. Proper nutrition

Sources of vitamin P are mainly the white rind and interlobular portion of citrus fruits. There is also a lot of it in raspberries, black currants, rose hips. Be sure to eat cabbage, tomatoes, parsley, dill. Vitamin P is found in large quantities in buckwheat. Vitamin C is friends with black currant, kiwi, bell pepper. Ascorbic acid strengthens the walls of blood vessels and helps to reduce edema.

You can add foods that have antibacterial and antifungal properties to your diet: garlic, spinach, and rose hips. Lean on fruits and vegetables.

2. Correct drinking regime

30 ml per 1 kg of weight – and you will get the right amount of liquid for yourself.

3. Quality shoes

Try to wear quality shoes, you can buy special healing insoles that provide support and redistribute weight.

4. Gymnastics for the legs

Give your legs a rest! Try to stand and walk less. Do gymnastics so that they do not go numb if you sit in one position for a long time.

5. Control your weight

Extra pounds is a load not only on the legs, but also on the entire body as a whole.

6. UV protection

Use professional cosmetics when out in the sun.

7. Monitor the health of your feet

Find a professional podiatrist to monitor the health of your feet. This is simply a vital necessity for a modern woman. He will select the right professional home care for you and teach you how to keep your legs in perfect condition.

8. Use creams

Purchase professional foot care cosmetics. This will help to avoid many problems.