Feet are the most-used but the least-pampered part of a man’s body. Dry, cracked heels, rough calluses and sore cuticles are not just ugly, they can hurt, bleed and be a breeding ground for infections. You’ll moisturise your face, oil your beard, even buy the right hair product but most probably forget your feet. They’re mostly covered in socks and shoes all day and only paid attention to when and if they start aching or cracking. With a few minutes of daily care, you can get rid of the pain, keep your feet smooth, and never feel embarrassed baring your feet in public
When you walk, run, or stand for long hours, your heels take the most pressure. If the skin around them is dry, it thickens into callus. Eventually, that callus can split, causing painful cracked heels. Add sweaty socks, lack of moisturiser, and ignored cuticles to that and you’ve got the worse scenario when it comes to foot care.
Easy Routine That Works
Step 1: Soak (5 minutes)
Fill a tub or bucket with warm water. Soak your feet for 5–10 minutes to soften the skin. Add a pinch of Epsom salt if you want extra relief after the gym. P.S. you get that salt packet for Rs 10 from your local grocery store.
Step 2: Exfoliate (1–2 times a week)
Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently buff away dead skin. Don’t go too hard. If you are ready to invest, you can get callus remover device which is a good investment.
Step 3: Moisturise (daily)
A good foot cream hydrates, softens callus, and seals in moisture. Apply it at night, then put your socks on to lock in hydration while you sleep.
Step 4: Cuticle care
After your soak, rub a drop of oil or cream into the cuticles and gently push them back. Avoid cutting them.
Step 5: Protect
Choose breathable socks, avoid shoes that rub, and don’t walk barefoot.
The Creams That Actually Work
Not all foot creams are equal; some hydrate, some exfoliate, some just smell good. Here’s the breakdown of the best ones worth buying:
1. Just Human 30 Seconds Foot Facial
• Works like a quick peel to soften dead skin. Great before filing or scrubbing.
• Best for for those who want a quick relief for rough feet.
2. Fixderma Foot Cream
• Packed with urea, lactic acid, and allantoin– all these ingredients are beneficial for cracked heels.
• Actually exfoliates and hydrates at the same time.
• It’s good for dryness and painful cracks.
3. Shankara Gheesutra Hand & Foot Cream
• Rich in ghee, aloe, and botanicals which makes it ultra-nourishing.
• Feels like a luxury balm; deeply moisturising but not heavy.
• Best for those who want natural care and a luxe, Ayurvedic feel.
4. Sol de Janeiro Samba Smooth Foot Cream
• Hydrating and scented cream that leaves feet soft and smelling great.
• Works better for maintenance than repair.
• Best for those with only mild dryness who want nice-smelling feet.
5. Moroccanoil Oud Mineral Hands & Feet Cream
• Lightweight, fast-absorbing, with argan oil, hyaluronic acid, and squalane.
• Hydrates without greasiness.
• Use it for everyday maintenance, especially if you hate sticky creams.