Feet change shape and texture as the body ages, owing to a host of changes in the structure of ligaments and tendons.
Part of the issue is down to a loss of strength, which, according to board-certified dermatologist at Sonterra Dermatology, Dr Annabelle Garcia, causes the arch of the foot to flatten.
But in addition to this, the skin undergoes its own transformation – with declining collagen, elastin and natural oils, triggering a cascade of changes. Drier and rougher soles perhaps being the most noticeable.
Menopause appears to compound the problem, Dr Garcia told GB News. Falling oestrogen levels reduce skin elasticity, which contributes to cracked heels while shifting fat distribution in the body.
Menopause compounds changes in the feet by hindering skin moisture
|
GETTY
But the good news is that the effects are reversible with consistent care.
Dr Garcia recommends exfoliating the feet once a week with a pumice stone or foot scrubber, ideally after a shower or foot soak, and moisturising twice daily.
She specifically recommends products containing hydrating ingredients like urea, glycerine, shea butter and hyaluronic acid – along with exfoliants like salicylic or lactic acids.
Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane, has also gained attention as a heel-softening agent.
It’s more commonly used in facial skin care for acne, ageing and pigmentation as it works by dissolving the uppermost layer of dead skin.
The next thing to address is the shower, because long and frequent showers will only worsen dry skin. Dr Garcia suggests keeping showers to around ten minutes.
For those wanting to enhance their shower routine, the dermatologist recommends a warm water and Epsom salt soak for fifteen to twenty minutes.
Follow this with a rich moisturiser like shea butter or petroleum and cover the feet with socks immediately afterwards if you want to lock in the moisture, says Dr Garcia.
Despite often being overlooked, footwear plays an important supporting role in prevention.
Well-fitting shoes with adequate cushioning are key, while footwear that leaves the heel exposed should be avoided.
When all these factors are taken on board together, most people notice initial improvements in their feet within a couple of weeks of consistent treatments.
Glycolic acid has gained attention as a heel-softening agent.
|
GETTY
It can take up to two months for feet to return to their original softness, however.
If symptoms fail to improve with home care, Dr Garcia recommends seeing a dermatologist.