Cracked heels can be unsightly and uncomfortable, but a simple and perhaps unexpected remedy lies within your bathroom cabinet: toothpaste. Toothpaste, especially those types formulated with baking soda or other mild abrasives, can help exfoliate and deeply cleanse the skin on your heels, leading to smoother and more beautiful feet quickly. Here’s how to use toothpaste to treat cracked heels effectively.
Ingredients:
- White toothpaste (preferably with baking soda)
- A few drops of lemon juice
- A tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a small bowl, squeeze out a generous amount of white toothpaste.
- Add a few drops of lemon juice and a tablespoon of coconut oil or olive oil to the toothpaste. Lemon juice acts as a natural bleach and antibacterial agent, while the oils provide necessary moisture and nourishment.
- Mix Well:
- Stir the ingredients together until you get a smooth paste. Ensure the oils are well incorporated with the toothpaste to create an even mixture.
- Application:
- Before applying the mixture, ensure your feet are clean and dry. You might want to soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes and gently scrub with a pumice stone or foot scrubber to remove any loose dead skin.
- Apply the toothpaste mixture generously to the cracked areas of your heels. Make sure to cover all the affected parts thoroughly.
- Leave It On:
- Cover your feet with socks to avoid a mess and allow the mixture to work on your heels for at least 30 minutes. For best results, consider leaving it on overnight.
- Rinse Off:
- Wash your feet with warm water the following morning or after the application period. Pat your feet dry with a towel.
- Repeat:
- Repeat this process for three consecutive nights. You should start to see your heels become softer and the cracks diminish after each treatment.
- Moisturize:
- After rinsing off the toothpaste mixture, apply a good quality foot cream or more coconut or olive oil to keep your heels moisturized throughout the day.
Additional Tips:
- Consistency Is Key: For the best results, it’s important to repeat the treatment as advised and keep your feet moisturized at all times.
- Choose the Right Toothpaste: Opt for a white toothpaste that contains baking soda or a little bit of fluoride. Colored or gel-based toothpastes might stain your skin or not provide the desired results.
- Preventative Care: To prevent cracked heels in the future, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, keep your feet clean, and hydrate regularly both internally by drinking plenty of water and externally by applying moisturizer.
While this home remedy can be effective for mild to moderate cracked heels, severe cases, which involve deep cracks or bleeding, should be treated by a healthcare professional. Always consider your skin’s sensitivity and test the mixture on a small area first to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
