Cracked fingertips facts

Introduction to cracked fingertips

Cracked fingertips are usually caused by dry skin and a lack of moisture, generally.

However, there are other conditions that can cause cracked fingertips, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, for example.

Dry skin is also caused by many different factors. Most people tend to have greater problems with dry skin during the winter, when the temperature drops. These cracks can even be painful, and in some instances they can bleed as well.

Causes

As stated previously, dry and cold weather can result in cracked fingertips. If the hands and fingers are exposed to harsh detergents or soaps that irritate the skin, they can crack as well.

That is why it is important to wear gloves when you are washing the dishes.

Contact dermatitis can also lead to cracked fingertips.

This can also occur when the skin comes in contact with chemicals, sodium lauryl sulfate or other irritants.

Fungal infections or skin conditions such as eczema can lead to cracked fingertips as well.

If the cracks are caused by a fungal infection, then the skin will become dry and scaly and there will also be an itching and burning sensation accompanying the dryness as well.

Sometimes cracks can appear in the fingertips as a result of an under-active thyroid gland. IN this case, the hair will probably be very dry as well.

If a person has eczema, they will not only experience dry and cracked fingertips, but also blisters and lesions on the skin as well.

TreatmentThe most important thing to do in order to avoid this problem is to keep the skin hydrated at all times.

Store-bought moisturizers can be used, but also petroleum jelly and vitamin E oil can also be used to keep the hands moisturized.

Vitamin E oil is excellent to use when the fingertips are cracked already because it will soften and heal the skin rather quickly.

Calamine lotion is another great solution for this problem.

Of course, preventive measures are the best, so keep the skin moisturized and stay away from harsh chemicals, soaps or detergents.

It is also important to moisturize before going to bed and after washing the hands as well.

When you are washing your hands, it is best to use mild soap and lukewarm water.

It is a good idea to purchase some skincare products that contain salicylic acid, because these products will help to exfoliate the skin and keep it moisturized as well.