Cracked heels can be uncomfortable and even painful, but with the right treatment, you can restore your feet to smooth, healthy condition. Urea is a key ingredient that stands out for its ability to effectively moisturise and exfoliate dry, cracked skin. Here’s why urea is a must for cracked heel treatment, along with some practical steps for treating this common foot issue.
What is Urea?
Urea is a naturally occurring chemical exfoliant and humectant that works similarly to skincare treatments that lift dead skin cells. It’s one of the most effective natural moisturising ingredients, found in the skin’s outer layer (epidermis), where it plays a crucial role in maintaining moisture balance and skin suppleness. Urea is non-toxic and non-allergenic, making it suitable for a variety of skin types.
In footcare, urea serves as both a moisturiser and an exfoliant, drawing water into the skin and gently breaking down hardened areas. Foot creams containing urea are highly effective for treating dry, cracked heels, leading to smoother, healthier feet.
What Causes Cracked Heels?
Cracked heels are primarily caused by dry skin, but several factors can contribute to this condition. Common causes include:
- Fungal infections or medical conditions such as diabetes or psoriasis
- Certain medications that dry out the skin
- Wearing open-heel footwear, like sandals or flip-flops
- Walking barefoot, which increases skin roughness
- Hot baths or showers, which strip the skin of moisture
Genetics, skin type, hydration levels, and even conditions like thyroid dysfunction can also play a role in the development of cracked heels.
Steps for Treating Cracked Heels
While cracked heels are often just a nuisance, they can become painful and even lead to infection if not treated. Here’s how you can effectively manage cracked heels at home:
1. Soak Your Feet
Start by soaking your feet in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes. This helps to soften the skin and prepare it for exfoliation. Avoid hot water, which can further dry out your skin. For best results, use a gentle, pH-neutral soap that won’t strip the skin’s natural oils.
2. Gently Exfoliate
After soaking, use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove any loose, thickened skin. The goal is to exfoliate without damaging the healthy layers. Avoid using razors or scissors, as they can do more harm than good. If you have diabetes or neuropathy, consult a podiatrist for safe footcare options.
3. Apply a Urea-Based Moisturiser
For effective treatment, opt for a foot cream containing urea, which offers dual benefits: it exfoliates dead skin while also acting as a humectant to draw moisture into the skin. This combination is essential for healing cracked heels, as it both smooths rough areas and keeps the skin hydrated.
4. Use Cotton Socks
After applying the urea cream, put on 100% cotton socks to help the product absorb more quickly. Cotton allows the skin to breathe, unlike non-breathable fabrics that can trap moisture and irritate the skin.
Our Top Picks for Hardworking Heel Balms
Check out some of our favorite urea-based heel balms that deliver impressive results for stubborn cracked heels:
1. Walker’s ULTRA 25% Urea with Ceramides Heel Conditioner
This powerful formula combines 25% urea with added ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Enhanced with Ceramides: Added Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP help strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
- Therapeutic Strength Urea: 25% urea promotes healing and prevents the build-up of dry, rough skin.
- Anti-Fungal & Anti-Microbial Properties: Medically proven to support the healing of cracked heels and provides protection against infections.
- Australian Made & Cruelty-Free: Ethically produced without animal testing.
Available in convenient travel size 100g tube, 500ml pump and economical 1L bottle.
2. Restorate REVIVE Extra Strength Foot & Heel Balm 30% Urea
Packed with 30% urea, this heavy-duty foot balm provides intense hydration and exfoliation. Here’s why it’s a go-to for stubborn cracked heels:
- 30% Urea Formula: Provides intensive hydration and exfoliation for tough, dry and cracked heels.
- Multi-action: all Restorate products are anti-odour, antibacterial as well as antifungal.
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Skin Barrier Protection: Enriched with a finely balanced blend of nourishing ingredients including shea butter, macadamia oil and peppermint oil.
- Non-Greasy Formula: Hydrates deeply without leaving a greasy residue, making it perfect for everyday use.
- Safe for Diabetics: Formulated to be gentle yet effective, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.
- Australian Made: developed by podiatrists in WA.
Available in 250ml tube or as part of the Restorate Bundle.
3. Restorate Intensive Foot Spray Extra Strength 25% Urea
Ideal for those with mobility challenges, this foot spray features a 2-way nozzle for easy application at any angle. We love a product that works and that makes foot care simple and stress-free.
Available in 125ml spray or as part of the Restorate Bundle.
4. Callusan Forte >15% Urea Cream Mousse
Made in Germany, this cream mousse features >15% urea to tackle advanced calluses and cracked heels. We love the rich, quick-absorbing, non-greasy cream mousse formula. A little bit goes a long way, so the mouse is economical. Here are some more reasons why Callusan Forte 15% Urea is one of our favourites:
- High Urea Content (>15%): Delivers intense care for advanced calluses and cracked heels.
- Enriched with Shea Butter: Provides deep moisture to nourish and improve the skin’s natural barrier.
- Gentle & Safe: Free from fragrances and dyes, making it suitable for sensitive skin and diabetic patients
- Quick-Absorbing, Non-Greasy: Ideal for those who need an efficient footcare solution.
- Vegan & Cruelty-Free: Committed to sustainable practices.
- Eco-Friendly Aerosol Technology: Uses CFC-free propellants and recyclable aluminum packaging.
Why Urea is a Must for Cracked Heel Treatment
Urea based products are highly effective because they address the root causes of cracked heels, dryness and thickened skin, while also providing deep hydration. Incorporating a urea cream into your daily footcare routine can help prevent future issues and keep your feet smooth, healthy, and pain-free.
Explore our full range of Cracked Heels & Dry Skin products on our Shopify store to find the perfect solution for your footcare needs.