CRACKS AND FISSURES

Cracks and fissures are breaks in your skin. They may be the result of skin that is too dry or too moist. When skin is too dry, it can become rough and flaky. A large fissure often forms at the base of the heel. When skin is too moist, you may get a bacterial or fungal infection. This can cause cracks between the toes.

When Skin Is Too Dry

• Walking barefoot can strip your skin of its natural oil; so can wearing sandals or open shoes
• Without enough natural oils to form a protective layer on your skin, your skin may crack
• Cracks may widen, becoming deep fissures; these fissures may not be able to heal on their own

When Skin Is Too Moist

• Moist skin can result from not drying feet after bathing or from excess sweat
• Wearing shoes without socks or shoes and socks that don't ventilate can trap sweat on your feet
• Overly moist skin can encourage bacteria and fungus to grow; this weakens your skin, leading to cracks

Caring For Dry Skin

• Use moisturizer on your feet after bathing and at bedtime
• Ask your doctor before using a pumice stone to reduce calluses
• Never walk barefoot; avoid sandals and other open shoes

Caring For Moist Skin

• Always dry feet between your toes after bathing; don't apply moisturizer between toes 
• Ask your doctor about using anti-fungal powders and lotions or special foot anti-perspirants 
• Choose cotton socks instead of nylon

Remember to check your feet daily!