Cracked heels can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but thankfully, there’s a homemade remedy that can help heal and smooth your feet using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This simple DIY treatment combines the natural antibacterial properties of garlic with the softening power of starch, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and vinegar to create a potent paste that targets dry, cracked heels. Here’s how to make and use this magic cracked heels treatment to get white and smooth feet.
Ingredients:
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of starch (cornstarch or potato starch)
- 1 tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda)
- 4 tablespoons of regular vinegar (white or apple cider)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Garlic:
- Peel the cloves of garlic.
- Grate the garlic cloves finely to create a smooth, juicy pulp.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine the grated garlic with 2 tablespoons of starch and 1 tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate.
- Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.
- Add Vinegar:
- Slowly pour 4 tablespoons of vinegar into the bowl with your dry ingredients and garlic. The vinegar will react with the sodium bicarbonate, so pour slowly to manage the fizzing.
- Stir the mixture vigorously to form a consistent paste. Ensure all components are evenly mixed and that the paste is smooth.
- Application:
- First, ensure your feet are clean and dry. It’s best to do this treatment after a bath or shower when your skin is softened.
- Apply the paste generously to your cracked heels and any other rough areas of your feet.
- Massage the paste into your skin in circular motions for a few minutes to enhance absorption.
- Leave it on:
- Wrap your feet in plastic wrap or put on cotton socks to keep the paste in place.
- Leave the paste on your heels for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible.
- Rinse Off:
- After the time is up, rinse your feet with warm water. Use a pumice stone or foot brush to gently scrub the treated areas to remove dead skin cells.
- Pat your feet dry with a clean towel.
- Moisturize:
- Follow up with a good moisturizer, coconut oil, or shea butter to keep the newly exfoliated skin soft and hydrated.
Repeat:
- For best results, apply this treatment 2-3 times a week. Depending on the severity of your cracked heels, you might see improvement within a few applications.
Why This Works:
- Garlic has natural antimicrobial properties that help prevent infections in cracks on the heels.
- Starch acts as a gentle abrasive and also helps in drawing out impurities from the skin.
- Sodium bicarbonate exfoliates and neutralizes bad odors.
- Vinegar softens dry skin, making it easier to exfoliate.
By using this garlic, starch, bicarbonate, and vinegar treatment, you can heal cracked heels and maintain soft, smooth, and white feet with consistent care. Remember, regular treatment combined with good hygiene and moisturizing practices will yield the best results.
