Let the first stone cast be the person who has never reached pedicure or podiatrist and complained about being with cracked feet .

This problem is quite common among men and women, and is often aggravated due to lack of information when it comes to treating it, especially regarding the use of sandpaper to combat skin dryness in this region.

The good news, however, is that it may take a little time, but it is possible to reverse this picture. Learn more!

Read also: The best foods to prevent dry skin

Why does the skin of the feet get cracked?

According to esthetician and cosmetologist Roseli Siqueira, from São Paulo, there are some main reasons that lead to drying of the skin of the feet and, consequently, its cracking. They are:

• Walking barefoot;
• Sand the heel excessively;
• Overweight;
• Lack of hydration.

Besides generating the problem, the attitudes listed above can even aggravate the situation, leading to bigger problems.

"If you have cracked feet and adopt a negligent posture, not giving it due importance, the problem will certainly be aggravated. Even cracked and thick feet impair the sensory of the region and in some cases it can be very painful to put on some shoes," says the professional.

Shoes, too, may have a share of the blame for cracked feet.

Read also: Foot care in cold weather to avoid dry skin and cracks

This is because very hard models can cause the skin in this area to thicken in an attempt to make it more resistant.

"The best thing to do, therefore, is to alternate the type of shoes you wear on a daily basis, i.e., not only wear closed or open ones. Besides that, when wearing socks, bet on cotton versions that let the skin breathe and give preference to models that are fluffier on the soles of the feet," suggests Roseli.

Why shouldn't I sand my feet?

Many people believe that sand the skin of the heels is a good way to get rid of dry skin on the feet. This, however, has a totally opposite effect.

"Thickening and cracking of the soles of the feet are caused by dryness and sanding can worsen this situation, leaving the region drier," assures the beautician.

Another attitude that is also not recommended is cutting the skin with pliers.

"Besides the danger of getting hurt, you still run the risk of contracting diseases."

Care and treatment for cracked feet

The regions of the Feet that suffer more from dryness - such as heel have a lower production of sebum, i.e., the skin's natural lubrication.

Therefore, adopting some care in your daily life can help to minimize this problem, as well as prevent it from arising.

"It is essential to take good care of the region, use appropriate socks and shoes, scalp the feet, and moisturize the region with 100% natural oils, such as sunflower seed, pumpkin, and coconut oil," says Roseli.

Read also: 11 important cares for the feet of the elderly

Another tip to keep them moisturized without having to prepare a foot scald is to apply a natural oil to clean, dry feet, and then wrap them in plastic wrap for 10 to 15 minutes.

Then remove the plastic and massage the area until the oil is completely absorbed by the skin.

"This process can be done daily, until the region becomes hydrated again," suggests Roseli.

"It may take a little time, but if you take care of it properly every day, the skin will return to normal," she adds.

It is worth pointing out that, in cases where the cracking is caused by some health problem, it is essential to seek a doctor and have professional follow-up.

Read also: What care should we take with our feet in the summer?

How to make a foot spa

According to the professional, the foot spa can be done at home. For this, you will need:

• 1 basin
• Marbles
• Coarse salt
• Natural oil of your choice

"Just fill a basin with warm water up to the ankle and add the marbles until they cover the bottom. They will serve to massage the soles of your feet," she explains.

After that, add a few pebbles of coarse salt and drops of natural oil of your choice. If you want, you can also add leaves and herbs, such as rosemary, for example, which helps reduce swelling.

"Finally, keep your feet submerged in water for about 15 minutes, dry them, and moisturize them well," she concludes.

Source: Roseli Siqueira, esthetician and cosmetologist, from São Paulo.