Dry skin is more likely to develop into calluses or heel fissures due to the build-up of dry, dead skin cells on the feet. The build-up of dry dead skin cells can be caused due to dehydration of the skin and dry environments.

Certain foot structures and foot mechanics can increase the exertion of pressure on specific areas of the feet, resulting in calluses and heel fissures forming.

Naturally as individuals age, the skin texture and integrity changes as the skin becomes drier, thinner, and less elastic due to the reduced collagen and elastin production. This increases the risk of calluses and heel fissures forming.

Some medical conditions affect the skin such as diabetes, psoriasis, and vascular disease, increasing the likelihood of calluses and heel fissures forming. Similarly, some medical conditions can affect the biomechanics and shape of the foot, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which increases the risk of calluses and heel fissures forming too.

Poor foot hygiene and neglect can aggravate dry, thickened skin, increasing the risk of the formation of calluses and heel fissures.