Fed up with unsightly cracks ruining the look of your feet? Then you'll want to learn how to properly treat this common heel condition. We'll explore causes like lack of moisture and everyday stressors. More importantly, determine the most effective cracked heel pedicures including rejuvenating paraffin wax. Discover how to complement professional treatments with easy self-care for revitalized, crack-free feet.
What are the causes of cracked heels?
Cracked heels usually start out as small cracks or splits in the skin of your heels. If left untreated, these cracks can develop into deeper fissures or splits that may cause pain, discomfort, and even bleeding in severe cases. The appearance of cracked heels is also unpleasant, with rough, dry, scaly skin on your heels that is often discolored and flakey.
There are a few main reasons why cracks tend to develop on the heels:
Dry skin - If the skin on your heels is not properly moisturized, it can become very dry and rough. Dry skin is more prone to cracking.
Mechanical stress - Walking, running, standing for long periods, and activities that put pressure on your heels can cause micro-tears in dry skin and lead to cracking over time. Wearing uncomfortable shoes or shoes without proper arch support puts added stress on your heels.
Age - As we age, the natural oils in our skin decrease, making our feet more susceptible to dryness and cracking. Cracked heels are very common in adults over 40 years old.
Genetics - Some people are naturally predisposed to dry skin and are more likely to deal with cracked heels based on their genes.
Environment - Dry, hot, or cold environments can strip moisture from skin and cause or worsen cracked heels. Indoors, central heating/air can also dry out heels.
How do they affect your foot health?
If left untreated, cracked heels can develop into more serious issues and affect your overall foot health:
Pain - Deep cracks usually cause tenderness and discomfort, especially when barefoot or wearing closed-toe shoes. Walking can aggravate the cracks.
Infection - Like any small cut or abrasion, cracked skin leaves openings for bacteria, fungus, or other germs to enter and potentially cause a foot infection.
Appearance - As mentioned before, cracked heels are unpleasant to look at with rough, flaky, discolored skin that is damaged. Many people are embarrassed by the appearance.
So, in summary - cracked heels are not just an annoyance, they can become painful and introduce health risks if not properly addressed. Keeping on top of foot care is important for prevention and treatment.
The need for a pedicure for cracked heels
I'm sure you're realizing by now that cracked heels are more than just a cosmetic issue - they can seriously impact your foot health if left unaddressed. This is where regular pedicures come in. Pedicures are not just about beautifying your feet - when done right, they provide genuine foot health benefits.
Regular pedicures help promote foot wellness in a few key ways:
Exfoliation - A major part of any pedicure is exfoliating the dead, dry skin from your feet. This is crucial for cracked heels, as it removes buildup allowing moisture to better penetrate your skin.
Early identification - A pedicurist will thoroughly examine your feet during treatment and be able to identify early signs of issues like fungal infections or other problems.
Moisturizing treatments - Pedicures include nourishing foot masks or massages using moisturizing ingredients like paraffin wax that can treat dry skin and cracks.
So, in essence, regular pedicures can act as "tune ups" for your feet that both beautify them and protect overall foot health. And cracked heels especially need this type of specialized attention.
Classic pedicure is a good option
A classic pedicure is a basic foot and nail treatment considered the foundation of pedicure services. It thoroughly cleans and cares for your feet and nails without additional bells and whistles.
While relaxing and beautifying, a classic pedicure alone may only provide temporary relief for cracked heels since it does not deeply treat the underlying causes like dry skin. However, it is a good starting point and the basic element in any pedicure routine.
What is involved in a regular pedicure?
Typical classic pedicures involve:
Soaking feet in warm water to soften skin and prepare for exfoliation
Gently scrubbing or using a foot file to remove loose, dry skin
Trimming, filing, and shaping your toenails
Pushing back cuticles and removing any dead skin
A relaxed foot and lower leg massage
Application of a moisturizing lotion
Optional polish application
How classic pedi service helps cracked heels
While only temporarily soothing for cracks, the classic pedicure provides:
Exfoliation of dead skin buildup that worsens cracks over time
Increased moisture to your feet through the hydrating soak and lotions
A professional analysis of your feet to monitor any early issues
Stress relief from the relaxing massage portion of the treatment
The classic pedicure lays the groundwork for foot care but additional elements such as paraffin are needed to soothe cracked heels. Let's explore this option.
The added benefit of paraffin in pedicures
Paraffin wax is a key ingredient that elevates pedicures, especially for problematic areas like dry cracked heels. some Fredericton's nail salons also offer paraffin wax as an add-on to classic pedicures, providing extra hydrating benefits. As a thick mineral oil, paraffin remains solid at room temperature but melts when heated.
When used in a nail treatment, paraffin is melted and your feet are submerged in the warm wax or it's applied in booties. As it cools and hardens, it forms an occlusive barrier on the skin. Thanks to its waxy texture, paraffin is highly emollient - it attracts and seals in moisture underneath its layer.
The moisture-locking effects of paraffin make it extremely effective for cracked skin issues:
Hydration - It deeply hydrates dry, cracked areas so they can properly heal.
Softening - The occlusion and heat soften thick, rough calluses and cracks.
Temporary pain relief - A paraffin treatment soothes irritation and tenderness from cracked heels.
So, paraffin is a game-changer when it comes to actually repairing cracked heel problems over the long run. It provides deep, locking moisture that classic pedicures miss out on.
Professional cracked heal pedicure procedure
Preparing Your Feet
The pedicurist will greet you, do a consultation to understand your needs, and then cleanse your feet to remove surface dirt, oils and impurities before exfoliation.
Exfoliation
Next is a gentle yet thorough exfoliation using a foot file or pumice stone. This removes dead skin cells clogging cracks to allow penetration of deeper treatments to follow. Rinse then dry thoroughly.
Paraffin wax application
The wax is carefully melted at around 125°F.
Your feet are submerged in the warm wax one.
Once the wax is applied completely, they will put a large plastic bag over your feet.
Enjoy 10-15 minutes of deeply relaxing as the wax hardens into a protective layer and your skin absorbs hydration.
The bag is then removed, and the hardened wax is gently peeled off your soft, moisturized feet.
The entire experience soothes aches and pains while sealing hydration into cracked, dry skin.
Now the pedicure part
With exfoliation and paraffin behind you, the technician shapes, trims, and cleans around the nails. Cuticle care involves pushing them back with a tool and gently removing any dry or hanging portions.
A relaxing lower leg and foot massage followed using a hydrating lotion or oil. Light to medium pressure is applied to relieve tension in the muscles.
The pedicure concludes with an application of nail polish if desired, or bare nails sealed with a clear top coat.
Post Pedicure Care
To extend the pedicure's benefits:
Moisturize daily, especially after showering. Seal in hydration with thick creams.
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes that don't rub cracked areas. Avoid heels when possible.
Continue addressing any underlying conditions like dry skin through proper skincare and lifestyle habits.
Schedule follow-up salon pedicures every 4 weeks for professional maintenance care.
Remember - cracked heels are slow to heal. Consistency is needed.
Medical pedicure is another helpful treatment
For severe cracks, a podiatrist or medical pedicurist can perform more specialized tools, solutions and wrap treatments to sanitize cracks and speed healing. They identify any underlying infections or medical causes too.
Visit Fredericton's best Vibrant Salon for cracked heel treatment
Vibrant Salon and Spa is a full-service nail salon in Fredericton for all your nail care needs. Our team is specially trained in various pedicure options tailored for cracked heels, dry skin, and foot or nail issues.
In addition to classic and paraffin pedicures for cracked heel repair, we also offer a wide selection of nail services like master certified pedi, gel manicures and shellac. Clients praise how attentive care leaves their feet feeling soft, smooth and healthy. Visit our nail salon today to book your personalized pedicure and consult with a specialist about the best nail or skin treatment plan. The Vibrant Team is ready to help you achieve revitalized, crack-free feet.
Concluding Thoughts
A classic pedicure paired with a deep hydrating paraffin treatment provides essential benefits for cracked heels:
Thorough exfoliation and deep moisture that speeds the healing of cracks
Immediate relief of pain, flaking, and discomfort through paraffin's temporary occlusion
Detection of other foot issues before they worsen
Promotion of long-term foot health through professional guidance
Consistency is key, so commit to regular manicure pedicure salon visits or at-home care using paraffin therapy. With moisture-locking hydration, cracks have their best chance to fully remedy over time. Your feet will thank you!
FAQs for cracked heels pedicure
Is it safe to get a pedicure with cracked heels?
Yes, getting pedicures specifically customized for cracked heels is advisable. Licensed professionals are trained to properly sanitize their tools and avoid aggravating cracks. They can also apply treatments optimally.
Can cracked heels be cured permanently?
With consistent moisture-locking hydration via methods like paraffin, diet-based hydration, and avoiding crack triggers, most minor cases of cracked heels can be fully repaired within a few months. For severe or chronic cracks, permanent healing may take longer or may also require medical treatment.
How often should pedicures be done?
For general foot maintenance, we recommend getting a classic pedicure once a month. Those with issues like cracked heels may need professional care biweekly until cracks fully mend, then monthly for ongoing repair and prevention thereafter.