Help for dry, cracked feet

April 7, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: My feet are rough, and the skin sometimes hurts, catching on my carpet. Can you please tell me what to use? I’ve tried so many different products without success.

DEAR READER: When you refer to your feet, I interpret that to mean your heels, which can form thick skin, split, and be difficult to manage.

Initially, and as long as there are no open ulcers, I might begin with a pumice stone, which can be purchased at your local pharmacy. Some even have a handle and resemble a hairbrush. [Read more...]

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OTC product may soften skin on feet and fingers

September 30, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Tell your readers that A&D Ointment is absolutely wonderful to use on dry areas, such as fingertips, cracked heels, hands, elbows and more. I get cracks in my heels. I have learned to wear only 100 percent cotton socks and not to wear sandals too frequently. Open sandals quickly contribute to dryness and dirt.

I soak the affected area in warm, soapy water (using mild soap) before bedtime, apply the ointment, and then put on the socks. It is amazing how much healing occurs during one night. It can be repeated as often as needed and is also inexpensive and safe.

I have tried this with Vaseline and have found that it doesn’t have the same healing power.
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