Considering Hydrogen Peroxide for Cracked Heels? Browse this helpful article to make an informed decision!
If you suffer from cracked heels, you’ve likely scoured the internet for relief options. One solution you may have encountered is using Hydrogen Peroxide for Cracked Heels. But is it effective? Let’s find out the answer below!
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Symptoms of Cracked Heels
The symptoms of cracked heels or heel fissures vary from mild to severe.
- Thickened skin on and around the cracks
- Skin discoloration
- Visible cracking
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Open wounds
Causes of Cracked Heels
Cracked heels affect both adults and children alike. Multiple reasons induce cracked heels, which include:
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Standing for an extended period of time
- Not moisturizing feet on a daily basis
- Taking unnecessarily long hot showers and baths
- Using harsh soaps
- Living in cold or low-humidity weather conditions
- Wearing open-back shoes and sandals
- Vitamin deficiency
Hydrogen Peroxide for Cracked Heels
Hydrogen peroxide is a popular surface cleaner and disinfectant with a number of uses. Does Hydrogen Peroxide Help Cracked Heels? No, for cracked heels, this pale liquid does more harm than good. Many websites claim 3% hydrogen peroxide is all you need to heal cracked heels. However, no scientific or clinical research is available. Using any concentration of hydrogen peroxide causes side effects such as temporary bleaching of the skin, irritation, skin burn, and blistering. That’s why avoid using hydrogen peroxide for cracked heels.
Note: Neither the direct application nor hydrogen peroxide foot soak for cracked heels is recommended.
Other Home Remedies to Heal Cracked Heels
As you know, hydrogen peroxide is not safe and effective for cracked heels, so check out the below remedies.
1. Vicks VapoRub
Popular for a multitude of uses, Vicks VapoRub is what you need to soften the cracked heels. It works because of the petrolatum content that holds the moisture by making a barrier around the skin, thereby giving you relief from cracked heels. Read more details in this article.
2. Vaseline
According to the official website, Vaseline petroleum jelly is an effective treatment for managing cracked heels. Before going to bed, take a shower and then cover the cracked heels with a sufficient amount of Vaseline. Next, put on cotton socks to keep your skin soft and hydrated. You’ll notice positive results within 2-3 days.
Precautions
Before using the above remedies, read the below precautions to avoid any complications.
- Patch test: Before using Vicks, always conduct a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions. If irritation, redness, or other negative effects occur, discontinue use immediately.
- Avoid Open Wounds: Avoid using the above home remedies on open wounds or cracked skin that is bleeding.
- Proper Storage: Keep the product containers tightly closed when not in use and store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain their efficacy and prevents contamination.
- Don’t Use Expired Products: Always check the expiry date of the Vicks and Vaseline to avoid skin infections or irritation.
- Contact with Eyes and Mouth: Be cautious not to get these products in your eyes or mouth. If you accidentally do so, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Underlying Health Conditions: If you have underlying skin-related issues, always consult a physician before trying the above remedies.
- Skin Irritation or Allergic Reactions: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if you develop signs of a skin reaction.
Cracked Heels Prevention Tips
Cracked heels can be quite uncomfortable and unsightly. The following tips can prevent the occurrence of cracked heels:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and skin hydrated.
- Don’t wear flip-flops and sandals to prevent your feet from drying.
- Wear shoes that fit well and support your heel. Open-backed or thin-soled shoes can put more pressure on your heels, so avoid them.
- Make sure to apply a moisturizer daily, especially after a bath or shower.
- Regularly exfoliate your feet to remove dead skin cells. You can use a foot scrub or a pumice stone for this, but be gentle to avoid skin damage.
- Keep your shower and bathwater lukewarm, as hot water can dry the skin.
- Harsh soaps can dry out the skin. Opt for gentle soaps or cleansers instead.
- If you have a job or lifestyle that involves prolonged standing, take regular breaks to reduce the pressure.
- Regularly inspect your feet for any signs of dryness, cracks, or infections. If you spot any problems, get the appropriate treatment immediately.
- Use a humidifier, especially during dry months, to keep air moisture levels optimal and prevent your skin from drying out.
Hydrogen Peroxide for Cracked Heels: Conclusion
Hydrogen Peroxide is not recommended for cracked heels due to the lack of scientific evidence and the potential for side effects. Rather, safer and more effective remedies, such as Vicks VapoRub and Vaseline, can be used to alleviate the discomfort of cracked heels. Along with treatment, daily hydration, proper foot care, and wearing supportive shoes can prevent the occurrence of cracked heels.
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