WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? CRACKED HEELS, ROUGH SKIN & DRY SKIN

(EXCERPT FROM BLOG: FOOTLOGIX MARCH 9, 2022)

Cracked Heels

It’s impossible to miss deeply cracked heels and fissures. These deep splits in the skin can be painful and may even bleed. What’s the cause? Dry feet, coupled with poor circulation, obesity, poorly fitting shoes and/or other lifestyle factors, such as standing for long periods of time, all contribute to the formation of heel cracks and fissures. As we stand, our body weight applies constant pressure on the fat pads of the heel, causing the skin to expand. And if the skin is really dry, it lacks the elasticity to accommodate the expansion—causing the skin to split.

Footlogix® Cracked Heel Formula is the right product choice. This formula uses Footlogix®-patented Dermal Infusion Technology (DIT) to deliver ingredients specially formulated to treat cracked heels deeply into all layers of the skin. The formula’s concentration of urea delivers maximum hydration and draws moisture to the heels, while other active ingredients, including evening primrose oil and aloe, improve the structure of the skin, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which increases elastin and collagen production to prevent future heel cracks.

Rough, Scratchy Skin

Dry skin that is also rough and scratchy (often described as sandpaper-like skin) is different from cracked heels or even regular dry, flaky skin. In this case, the roughness is caused by superficial heel cracks. These cracks are actually microtears in the skin that are frequently caused by a fungal infection. Fungal infections of the feet, such as athlete’s foot, are quite common. And extremely dry skin is a contributor since dry skin is fragile and skin tears and abrasions are convenient entry points for fungus, especially in high moisture environments. Unfortunately, no amount of hydration will resolve the roughness associated with this type of dry skin and, in fact, too much hydration can encourage further fungal growth. To get results, an anti-fungal treatment, along with hydration, is necessary.

For these reasons, the Footlogix® Rough Skin Formula is the right choice. This formula includes proprietary anti-fungal agents, as well a smaller concentration of moisturizing ingredients than what is found in the Footlogix® Cracked Heel Formula. Through continued treatment, eliminating the fungal infection will eliminate the microtears and itchy, uncomfortable rough skin and allow other Footlogix® hydrating treatments to effectively address any remaining dry skin.

Dry Skin

Dry, flaky skin that is not rough, scratchy or cracked is typically just that—dehydrated skin. Lifestyle factors, such as medical conditions, bad shoes and rigorous exercise are frequently the cause, as well as environmental factors such as dry indoor heating or prolonged exposure to the sun. While still unsightly and sometimes uncomfortable—even very dry skin does not require cracked heel or fungal treatment.

However, moisturizing dry skin on the feet is still very important as it’s the most effective way to prevent cracked heels and open wounds that are susceptible to fungal infections. In these cases, many of the other Footlogix® hydrating solutions will deliver excellent results. Clients may choose or you may recommend the formula you believe best meets the individual client’s needs and preferences.

• Footlogix® DD Cream Mousse: This formula offers double defense foot care protection. In addition to providing moisturizing and anti-microbial benefits through the delivery of Urea and Spiraleen®, DD Cream Mousse also offers anti-aging and rejuvenating effects. This product is recommended for clients with minor skin irritations and is best used at night.
• Footlogix® Daily Maintenance Formula: Designed for normal to dry skin, this product contains urea to lock in moisture and is an excellent maintenance product for clients who want to maintain hydrated feet and toes between pedicure appointments.
• Footlogix® Very Dry Skin Formula: Developed for the care, protection and moisturization of extremely dry skin, this formula contains a higher concentration of urea to target advanced dryness. This formula is recommended for diabetics and mature clients.

Stop into Marie’s in Anchorage to pick up the formula that is right for your situation. What we love about Footlogix is that the formulas dry quickly on the feet and do not leave a greasy residue.  More importantly, the formulas delve deeper into the skin layers and begin working right away. We are raving fans!