As we enter firmly into winter, I am reminded that cold, moist weather (at least in my household) often results in dry, cracked skin.

One of my problem areas during dry weather - be it winter or summer - is the issue of dry, itchy, heels. No, I will not inflict a photo of that on you, dear readers.

Rather, I just wanted to take a moment to rave about the product I use to effectively and affordably prevent, or in some cases, correct, this problem.

I simply must rave about O’Keefe’s Healthy Feet* treatment cream for dry, cracked, or splitting skin.

• First of all, based on my own experience from using it for the last 2 years: it really works. 
• Second, compared to many other creams, lotions, and moisturizers that I have encountered for treating dry or splitting skin, it is very reasonably priced: O’Keefe’s will set you back about $10.00/3.2 Oz. jar or $42.00 for a package of 6 jars  at Amazon.com, less if you shop around.
• Third, O’Keefe’s is widely available: from drugstores and grocery markets to outdoors retailers, and strangely enough, feed and tack stores (Believe me, the things that turn up in feed stores can be surprising).

Now, if I notice that the skin on my feet (Or hands, it’s all really essentially the same dry skin issue), I will do a bedtime treatment on the problem skin area and then just make sure to wear socks while the cream absorbs into my skin while I sleep. (I also like to wear socks since the consistency of the cream is a similar to cold cream and has a slightly greasy feeling when it is first applied.) By the next day I never have any more itchiness and the affected skin is noticeably less dry.  I have found that several days of use quickly results in much more supple and healthy skin.

Luckily, I generally do not get deep, dry cracks on my heels, (thank goodness) but have in the past had occasional need to use the (nearly identical) Working Hands cream that O’Keefe’s also makes on deep cracks that I would get on my hands. One warning, if your skin has areas with very deep cracks, the first one or two applications may sting.  In my experience, the improvement and quick healing that results is worth the brief discomfort I may feel during initial application.

I am not a doctor, so I cannot say this is right for everyone. But, if you are looking for an inexpensive and effective moisturizer for problem areas such as dry feet, I have to give O’Keefe’s two thumbs (or maybe toes) up.

Warm wishes for a cold winter snuggled up with a cup of hot chocolate - and, of course, healthy skin. After all, fabulous holiday footwear best shines when worn on a pair of healthy and perfectly pedicured feet.

* Yes, the jar I purchase a couple of months ago is labelled ‘Working Feet’. It is the same product, simply a new name - either packaging may be in local stores.