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12 Ultra-Hydrating Foot Creams That Will Keep Your Dry, Cracked Heels Happy
A luxe treat for your tired, old soles.
Self-care routines often put emphasis on the face through the use of skin-care serums and hydrating moisturizers. As we move down the body, reparative body washes and nourishing body lotions and oils enter the mix. However, all that love, care, and attention dwindles as we reach the feet. Often overlooked yet a crucial part of our bodies, feet don’t get nearly as much attention as other areas—and should. Have you ever felt cracked, dry skin on your heels before? Well, we have a simple solution: foot creams.
You may not realize it, but dry, cracked heels are not only lackluster to look at but can also lead to serious health implications if not addressed. “It is imperative to always check your feet,” says podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Dr. E. Giannin Perez. “Dryness or cracked heels can cause problems. Any breaks or cracks in the skin are a portal of entry for bacteria, leading to infections. Make sure to visit your podiatrist and get your feet examined. Infections, when not treated properly, can lead to amputations.”
Shop our top picks for hydrating foot creams in 2024
Best Stimulating Foot Cream
Mary Kay Private Spa Collection Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion for Feet & Legs
Read more
As dramatic as it sounds, regularly applying hydrating and exfoliating foot creams can almost instantly reverse standard dryness, keep your feet healthy, and help you avoid serious complications. Finding products that combine hydrating ingredients with mild exfoliants, like lactic acid and urea, helps shed dead skin cells. We hunted to find the best expert-recommended foot creams with high-quality ingredients–and low price tags–that will keep your feet in tip-top shape. Here, shop the 13 best foot creams for dry feet.
Koba Skincare Bottom Up Foot Cream
Pros
- Thick texture, so a little goes a long way
Cons
- Some wish that it came in multiple sizes for easier travelling
Consider this cream a comforting balm for extremely stressed, chapped skin. A blend of nourishing oils and butters caress every crack and crevice of your foot, leaving it hydrated and soft for hours on end. Pro tip: Slip your feet into a pair of fluffy socks to maintain the softness.
Key ingredients: Shea butter, olive butter, sweet almond oil
Size: 3.4 fl oz
Thirteen Lune rating: 5/5 stars
A Thirteen Lune reviewer says: “I love how this hydrated the dry skin on my feet, making them feel softer. This formula isn’t greasy and it absorbs really well into the skin!”
L'Occitane Shea Butter Foot Cream
Pros
- A lot of product per tube
Cons
- Some people find the cap fussy
L’Occitane’s luxurious body products are not only stunning, but very effective. If you’re searching for a foot cream that works and is also beautiful enough to proudly display on your sink, this is it. No more shoving your embarrassing products in a bottom drawer.
Key ingredients: Shea butter, arnica flower extract, glycerin, sunflower seed oil
Size: 5.3 fl oz
Sephora rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “This is legit! I bought on a whim as my feet get very dry in the winter–this really works well and made my heels very soft. Definitely worth the money!”
Mary Kay Private Spa Collection Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion for Feet & Legs
Pros
- Helps combat tired feet
Cons
- Does not have online reviews
You might notice that many foot creams contain invigorating ingredients like peppermint, and that’s because those ingredients help stimulate blood flow in the feet. This version from Mary Kay can be used both on the feet and the legs, and helps wake them up for the day.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, rosemary lead extract
Size: 3 fl oz
An ELLE editor says: “As a Dr. Martens obsessive (I own at least four pairs, one of which has been in constant rotation for seven years), there’s nothing more rewarding than rubbing my feet after a long day of lugging my platform Jadon boots through NYC’s gritty streets. I’m prone to foot swelling, and while the internet has recommended an ice bath to relieve swelling and pain, I’d never willingly plunge my feet into cold water for relief. This lotion from Mary Kay is as close as I’ll get to feeling that cooling sensation. As the name suggests, my tired feet are suddenly energized when I rub this cool mint lotion before bedtime. Glycerin nourishes the skin, while willow bark extract and rosemary provide the tingling sensation to calm these paws down.” —Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Anti-bacterial formula
Cons
- Some prefer a thicker consistency
Say goodbye to rough, cracked heels. Susanne Kaufmann crafted an ultra-rich formula that will intensely hydrate feet and soothe even the roughest patches of skin.
Key ingredients: Broccoli seed, sage, marigold, rosemary, thyme, camphor, and menthol
Size: 6.7 fl oz
A Susanne Kaufmann reviewer says: “The best foot cream I have ever used…I bought two jars of foot cream for friends without having tried it myself. They both raved about it so I treated myself to some. A small amount will leave your feet (and ankles) feeling soft and cool. It is not greasy. We all keep it on our bedside tables and apply some just before bed.”
Exuviance Exfoliating & Conditioning Foot Balm
Pros
- Softens the skin
Cons
- Some dislike the scent
Think of this cream as a facial for your feet. It uses some of our favorite skin care ingredients, like mandelic acid and vitamin E, to nourish, heal, exfoliate, and soften the feet. Not convinced? Check out their before-and-afters after just one use, and you’ll be a convert.
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, lactic acid
Size: 1.7 oz.
Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “This made my feet feel literally so soft! I would recommend to anyone with dryer feet. The packaging also felt expensive and overall it was a great experience!”
Soap & Glory Heel Genius Foot Cream
Pros
- Soften foot skin
Cons
- Can leave a film behind
Foot creams can be cute, too! This version hydrates, exfoliates, and helps soften feet, thanks to its combination of active ingredients. Not to mention, this cream is also lightly scented, so you can stop worrying about stinky feet.
Key ingredients: Urea, glycerin, AHAs
Size: 4.2 fl oz
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “Finally!!!!!!! A cream that actually softens my feet!! I’ve tried EV-ER-Y-THING. And nothing works like this!!!!”
Aveda Foot Relief Foot Cream
Pros
- A lot of product
Cons
- May not be thick enough for very dry skin
This foot cream by Aveda is packed with hydrating and nourishing oils to reduce scaly feet. Along with moisturizing, this product also uses lactic acid to gently exfoliate the feet, reducing dry patches after just a few uses.
Key ingredients: Lactic acid, castor seed oil, jojoba seed oil
Size: 4.2 oz.
Nordstrom rating: 4.9/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “My husband, daughter and I have used this product for the past ten years. We highly recommend it for dry feet especially in winter. It’s not greasy, pleasant smelling and best of all, it works!”
Pros
- Soothes cracked heels
Cons
- Some dislike the scent
If you need a product that addresses serious issues like painful, cracked heels, this German brand’s salve can address even uncomfortable issues. It uses a combination of healing, hydrating, and soothing ingredients, so you can expect to see results after a week of use.
Key ingredients: Lanolin, vaseline, bisabolol, menthol
Size: 2.6 fl oz
Nordstrom rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “Purchased this for use on my heels and dry winter skin on my feet. It takes a bit of massaging into the skin to absorb but it’s perfect after a bath or shower. Rub in, then slip on a pair of socks or slippers and give it a little extra time to absorb. Works fabulously for those stubborn dry heels. There is a slight scent to it, but it isn’t an unpleasant or chemical scent and the smell doesn’t linger.”
Pros
- Exfoliates the skin
Cons
- Can sting at first
AmLactin’s foot cream is considered one of the best, thanks to its combination of exfoliating and richly hydrating ingredients. Lactic acid helps exfoliate dead skin cells, making your feet softer, smoother, and less cracked. Plus, the texture of the cream is pillowy and soft, and never greasy or sticky.
Key ingredients: Lactic acid, glycerin
Size: 3 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using the foot cream for nearly two weeks. My feet were so dry, I had chunks of skin that I could pull off. With in a week I really saw an improvement in my feet. My dermatologist suggest I give this a try. I can’t believe how fast it started to work my heels are very smooth. I’m very pleased with this cream.”
Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Pros
- Multi-use
Cons
- Can leave grease marks
Slugging went viral on TikTok, but if you haven’t tried using that same method for soothing dry feet, you’re missing out. You can apply it by itself, or slather it over a layer of cream for your feet to truly soak up the benefits.
Key ingredients: Petrolatum
Size: 14 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.8/5 stars
A ELLE contributor says: “If there’s one holy grail, do-it-all skincare product in my arsenal, it’s Aquaphor. Similar to but lighter than Vaseline, this timeless Petrolatum-based ointment features nourishing ingredients and helps create a breathable, protective barrier on the skin to help heal extreme dryness and even minor cuts and burns. It can effectively replenish cracked hands and feet, but it’s also great for removing dry patches on the face and healing pimple scabs when other moisturizers just won’t cut it (let us not forget that this formula is a star of TikTok’s favorite slugging trend). Not to mention, the affordable ointment doubles as a super-hydrating lip balm when my perpetually chapped lips are on fire.” —Sam Peters, Hearst senior commerce editor
Pros
- Comes in a pack of three
Cons
- Can feel greasy at first
Eucerin is known as one of the best brands for giving your body hydration. Not only does this foot cream contain moisturizing sunflower seed oil and healing ceramides, but this cream also contains urea, which helps slough off dead skin cells.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, urea, glycerin, sunflower seed oil
Size: 3 fl oz.
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
A ELLE contributor says: “My podiatrist recommended that I find a foot cream with urea to help soften the skin on my feet. After trying a few options, I fell in love with the Eucerin one. Not only is it super hydrating, but I started to notice my feet become softer almost immediately.”—Tatjana Freund, Hearst fashion and luxury commerce editor
O’Keeffe’s For Healthy Feet Foot Cream
Pros
- Affordable
Cons
- Some people dislike the greasy texture
O’Keeffe’s foot cream was formulated not just quickly to heal cracked, dry feet, but to do so with gentle, healing ingredients. This balm creates a barrier around your feet, which helps soothe the skin and prevent future issues.
Key ingredients: Urea, glycerin
Size: 3.2 fl oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “O’Keeffe’s for Healthy Feet Foot Cream has been a game-changer for my extremely dry and cracked skin on my feet. It’s an inexpensive solution that provided relief just in time for my vacation. The cream’s effectiveness and affordability make it a standout choice. If you're dealing with dry and cracked feet, O’Keeffe’s is a budget-friendly option that gets the job done. Highly recommended for its guaranteed relief and wallet-friendly price!”
Meet the Experts
Dr. E. Giannin Perez is a podiatric surgeon and foot and ankle specialist based in New York City, New York.
Dr. Karan Lal is a double-board certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona.
What causes foot dryness?
If you have experienced dry, scaly feet, you are not alone. “The skin is an organ which acts as a barrier that protects the underlying tissues from the environment. Dry skin occurs when water loss exceeds water replacement. Any disruption to the skin can lead to loss of water, which can be signs of conditions like atopic dermatitis, eczema, xerosis, contact dermatitis, infection, and other chronic skin diseases. Commonly, the feet are subject to chafing and rubbing due to walking as well as the interplay between socks and shoes,” explains Dr. Perez.
While some dryness is normal and common, it is important to check with a doctor if you are concerned. “Dry feet can be caused by a number of different conditions, including foot, fungus, psoriasis, and hyperkeratosis. Foot fungus, psoriasis, and hyperkeratosis are the most common findings in people who come in with dry feet. It is important to get a diagnosis because some treatments for psoriasis may make foot fungus worse,” adds Dr. Karan Lal.
Can foot dryness lead to podiatric issues?
While you might be comfortable living with some foot dryness, not treating it can actually lead to further issues down the line. “It is imperative to always check your feet. Dryness or cracked heels can cause problems, especially if you are diabetic. Diabetics often have neuropathy–loss of sensation–and any breaks or cracks in the skin are a portal of entry for bacteria, leading to infections. Make sure to visit your podiatrist and get your feet examined. Infections, when not treated properly, can lead to amputations,” warns Dr. Perez.
Not treating dry feet can also lead to increasing levels of discomfort. “If you have dry feet, it puts you at risk for developing fissures, cracking, thickening of the skin of the foot, which can lead to calluses and corns. Thick skin and pressure from footwear can also lead to bunions,” says Dr. Lal.
What are the best ingredients to look for in foot creams?
The good news is that there are many safe and effective over-the-counter remedies for nipping dry feet in the bud. Finding a product that has both exfoliating and hydrating ingredients can help tackle dehydration and soften hardened skin at once. “The best ingredients for dry feet that are not going to disturb or make foot fungus and psoriasis worse are salicylic acid, urea, lactic acid, and glycolic acid,” says Dr. Lal. He continues, “Acids are not only antimicrobial, but can also help shed some of the excessive skin layers that are noticed on the foot. Urea is an emollient which moisturizes the skin, but also causes exfoliation of excess skin.”
For hydration, Dr. Perez recommends products that contain petroleum or ceramides.
How often should you use foot creams?
Ideally, both Dr. Lal and Dr. Perez recommend applying a foot cream twice a day. “Adherence is always difficult, but aim to use twice a day. Once in the morning and at night to clean, dry feet. After the shower is the best time to moisturize your feet. Also, avoid using drying soaps and soaking your feet in hot water for long periods of time,” says Dr. Perez.
In addition to your foot cream, incorporating a pumice stone can also decrease dry, hardened skin. Wearing comfortable shoes and checking in with a doctor when you suspect any issues are key to keeping your feet healthy.
Why trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund spoke to experts to find the best remedies for treating dry, cracked feet.
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