Q. I was wondering if you have any suggestions for SEVERELY cracked heels. My heels are severely calloused and hard. I have tried a pumice stone, foot file, wax spa treatment and regular moisturizing, but nothing has completely taken away the condition. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you!

Answer: If you have been using all the treatments you mentioned, the next time you may want to see a dermatologist. These areas could be from a fungus condition that needs different medications than you have used.

Q. I've had a condition, that may or may not be Athlete's Foot, off and on for two years after moving to Dubai, UAE. The dermatologist has prescribed Lamasil and other over-the-counter medications, but they don't seem to be working.

Symptoms: At the base of the small toe, on both feet, I get a thin opening, almost as if they'd been cut with an Exacto knife. Otherwise, there's no rash, blothching, fungal growth, etc. Just these horizontal slits.

Can you recommend any natural or medical remedies? I wash my feet several times a day, drying them well, and wear cotton socks and well fitting shoes. One more question: Is using soap on my feet, near the infected area, harmful to my condition?

Answer: Washing your feet several times a day may be more of a hindrance to your situation than good. There may be a low grade dermatitis there that you might want to see a dermatologist for. They can prescribe topical steroids to help the situation. I doubt that using soap near this area is harmful.