The buildup of multiple layers of thick, dry skin is the main cause of cracks and dryness commonly seen on the heels of our feet. Even if the surface doesn’t look dry at first, our feet inevitably collect these layers of dry skin. Some people may even develop calluses on their heels! Without proper care, this skin can harden and eventually crack, leading to discomfort and an unappealing appearance.

• Daily movement: As you walk and move around, you apply pressure to the soles of your feet, causing the fat pads under your heels to expand and experience high friction. Your body naturally thickens the skin on your feet as a protective mechanism to prevent irritation or damage.
• Unsupportive footwear: The consistent wear of shoes that are too narrow, tight, or loose on your feet increases the friction between the your skin and the material of the shoe. It is also important to note, the consistent wear of open-heel footwear like sandals also expose your skin to the air, which also dries it out! 
• Feet type: Dry skin on feet can happen due to a few factors, regardless of foot type. For those with naturally dry skin, lack of moisture can cause dead skin cells to accumulate. People with sweaty feet may experience layers of dead skin from constant moisture, which leads to faster shedding and buildup.

While the skin on your feet may not be highly visible to others, it should be a priority in your self-care routine. Neglecting proper care for your feet can lead to various issues: 

• Increased discomfort: Our feet are essential for everyday tasks! Without proper care, you might start to feel discomfort even during simple activities like walking short distances or standing.
• Risks of infection: Once cracks and dryness appear on the surface of your feet, they become open gateways for bacteria, which can lead to further health issues.

Invest in a few pairs of shoes that fit your foot shape! To determine your foot type, place your foot on a flat surface and observe the inner arch. If you have a more prominent arch, you likely have narrower feet and should look for shoes that won’t be too loose. On the other hand, if your arch touches the floor or is barely visible, you probably have flat feet. Flat feet tend to be wider, so it's best to find shoes that aren’t too tight and have a high-arched insole. 

We all know how comfortable it is to walk around all day in your favorite pair of Crocs or slippers. However, you need to be mindful of how often you expose your foot skin. Constant exposure, especially in colder and drier climates, can worsen the dryness of your feet.

When your skin is exposed to long showers, your feet continuously absorb the water, which can worsen dryness. Additionally, soaking your feet in hot water can strip away natural oils, making them even drier. Try to limit your showers to 5-10 minutes!

Regular exfoliation is crucial for preventing the buildup of dry, callused skin on your heels. By exfoliating regularly, you can effectively reduce the accumulation of dry skin layers. Exfoliating your feet promotes skin cell turnover, revealing fresher, softer skin underneath. This also improves the absorption of moisturizing products, allowing them to penetrate more deeply and provide better hydration.

It’s important to make sure that the exfoliation product you choose is not too rough, as harsh surfaces can actually worsen skin roughness. If the exfoliation is too aggressive, either in its ingredients or material, it can cause microtears, leading to small wounds and increased skin damage.

Luckily for you, CheekyGlo has designed a foot file with laser-etched details to provide a gentle yet effective solution for achieving silky-smooth feet. The finely etched surface delicately exfoliates rough calluses and layers of dead skin, leaving your feet rejuvenated and revitalized!

We recommend pairing your exfoliation routine with CheekyGlo’s Juicy Peach Body Oil. It offers deep hydration and nourishment without leaving an oily residue, striking the perfect balance for your skin.

To prevent dry heels from returning, consistent moisturization is essential! After exfoliation, it's important to maintain the hydration of your newly revealed soft skin and protect it from further dryness and environmental stressors. When choosing a moisturizer, look for one that soothes your skin without leaving a greasy residue, as excessive oiliness can create a slipping hazard.