Overnight moisture treatments are fine — just wipe off the excess.

The best way to treat cracked heels from winter boots is to apply a thick moisturizer or balm at night, then wipe off any excess in the morning before putting on socks and boots — this prevents slipping while still healing your feet.

The problem is the dry air and constant friction from boots. Urea creams (10–25%) or lanolin-based balms work well. Slather them on before bed, put on cotton socks, and let it soak in overnight. In the morning, rinse or wipe off the residue. You don’t want a greasy film between your foot and the sock — that’s how you slide around.

During the day, stick to lighter lotions or just use a pumice stone after showers to keep calluses down. If your heels are really cracked, a silicone heel sleeve worn inside a clean sock overnight can hold moisture in without making a mess.

Don’t skip the wipe-down step. Future You doesn’t need an ER trip because your foot slipped inside a boot.