Exfoliate THEN moisturize. Repeat daily until condition improved and then cut down to exfoliating 2-3 times per week (you still need to moisturize daily).
Exfoliating alone will not be effective because the skin that is under the dead, dry skin needs moisture to prevent future cracking.
Moisturizing alone will not be effective because there is a barrier from the dead, dry skin.
When you have cracks in your skin from being dry, exfoliating should become your way of life. Not only will you need to exfoliate initially quite a bit to remedy, but you will need to maintain a regular exfoliation routine otherwise the cracks will come back.
Great Exfoliants:
Foot Scrubs
Scrubs can contain a number of ingredients that are great exfoliants such as: pumice, nut shell powders, salt and sugar.
Foot Files or Pumice Stones
Using one of these tools with your scrub gives you extra exfoliating power.
Ingredients to Avoid in Moisturizers:
Never use a moisturizer that has mineral oil in it - EVER. Mineral oil creates an un-penetrable barrier, so even if you have excellent hydrating ingredients in your moisturizer they will not benefit your skin.
Ingredients to Look for in Moisturizers for Extremely Dry Skin:
Jojoba oil is similar to your skin's natural oil and is easily absorbed. It makes a great moisturizer and never goes rancid.
Azulene (heart of chamomile flower) is one of the most moisturizing ingredients for human skin while being very soothing and calming at the same time.
Implementing these steps and choosing products with healthy ingredients are the key to fabulous feet!
