When the surrounding skin is healthy and flexible, this usually causes no problem.
But when the skin becomes very dry and thick, it loses some of that flexibility.
Pressure can then cause the hardened skin to split, creating what are known as heel fissures.
Several things can contribute to this problem, including:
- Dry weather
- Long periods of standing
- Walking barefoot
- Frequent use of flip-flops or open-back sandals
- Very hot showers
- Excessive scrubbing
- Naturally dry skin
- Increased pressure on the heels
Mayo Clinic notes that cracked heels often develop when dry, thickened skin around the heel is placed under repeated pressure.
Why Petroleum Jelly Can Help
Petroleum jelly does not exfoliate the skin or “remove” calluses.
Instead, it works mainly by creating a protective barrier over the skin.
This barrier slows moisture loss and helps dry skin remain softer and more flexible.
That matters because rigid, dehydrated skin is much more likely to split.
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