If a pumice stone or scrub does absolutely nothing for your chronically dry, cracked heels, we’re in the same boat. Here are some chemical and manual exfoliants that actually work to reveal soft, smooth feet in time for summer.

Glytone Ultra Softening Heel and Elbow Cream

Glytone’s Ultra Softening Heel and Elbow Cream is a good option for someone looking for gentle chemical exfoliation, and who can adhere to a beauty routine. For a gentle, gradual exfoliation, massage the cream onto dry, callused heels once a day. Leave on for only 10-15 minutes and rinse with warm water. Over time you’ll have soft, smooth feet (and elbows!).

Boscia Baby Soft Foot Peel

Boscia’s Baby Soft Foot Peel is a good option for someone who isn’t looking to use any elbow grease to get rid of their dry, cracked heels. The treatment only takes 60-90 minutes, and all you have to do is slip the chemical exfoliant containing booties on. I like to wear thick socks over my treatment booties for a tighter fit and more direct contact with the treatment. You may experience a tolerable burning sensation. Do not use this treatment if you have broken skin- it will sting.

Your feet will start to peel over the course of the next two weeks to reveal soft, smooth feet. In the meantime, expect to have dry skin peeling and hanging off your feet for at least a week. If you expose your bare feet regularly, like in a yoga class, this may not be for you.   

PedEgg Professional Pedicure Foot File

The PedEgg is essentially a grater for your feet. It has over 100 precision micro-files that are used to manually remove calluses and dead skin. Using the PedEgg takes some physical effort, but it works well to remove the dry thickened skin on heels and the soles of feet without damaging the healthy skin below.

Tip2Toe Professional Electric Callus Remover

The Tip2Toe Professional Electric Callus Remover is the power tool of dry heel removal, and it should be used with caution. Set the device to the lowest setting, and never use it on delicate skin. Repeatedly tap the sander on areas of thickened and dry skin on the soles of the feet and heels. Never hold the device on the same spot at the risk of creating a raw spot. When you see pink, healthy skin, stop sanding!

I love this thing, but even using an abundance of caution I’ve managed to break the skin a few times.  That said, I’ve never used anything that worked so well and so quickly to keep my feet soft and smooth. 

For more tips on preparing for summer, check out Summer sun protection for sensitive skin, and The lazy girl’s guide to a perfect self tan at The Beauty Lab.