Cracked Skin on The Hands

 Cracked Skin on The Hands

Dry hands are one of the most common skin conditions. Although they can be irritating to some extent, technically, that is not a dangerous condition. Mostly dry hands are due to environmental conditions. Some other factors which can cause dry hands include 

1. Weather conditions 

2. Frequent handwashing

3. Constant exposure to some chemicals 

4. Not taking good care of your hands

5. Certain medical conditions and many more.

Regardless of the cause, there are still several ways and skin treatments offered by reliable dermatologists nowadays to keep your thirsty skin hydrated. You can learn more about ways to prevent it, what’s causing it in the first place, and remedies for dryness in the article below. So, let’s get started. 

Reasons for cracks on hands

• Cracked skin of the hands is primarily due to repeated contact with moisture.

• Examples are washing dishes or washing the hands often for any purpose.

• Soap removes the natural protective oils from the skin and makes it dry.

• Cracked, dry hands can usually be treated at home without any trouble.

Home Treatments for Cracked Hands

Given below are some care pieces of advice that will help you prevent cracked and dry hands: 

1. Use ointment for shallow cracks; if protected from air exposure and drying, the cracks heal faster.

2. You should cover the cracks continuously with petroleum jelly like Vaseline. Apply three times a day on the cracks.

3. Use an antibiotic ointment suggested by a skin specialist if the crack seems mildly infected, such as Polysporin. Apply it thrice a day, and no prescription is needed.

4. You can cover the cracks with ointment and bandages. It can speed up the recovery process. You can also use some special glue for this purpose.

5. A liquid skin bandage works even better if you have one, it would be the best option. But remember, don’t use liquid bandages and ointment together.

What if I have deep cracks on my hands?

Use a liquid skin bandage for deep cracks. Mostly deep cracks of the fingers do not heal with ointments. Use a liquid skin bandage to seal the crack entirely for such cracks. No prescription is needed, and many brands of liquid bandages are available on the market. Start with two layers, but you can put another layer if needed. Over time, the plastic coating will be pushed up as the crack heals.

How to prevent cracks on hand?

Given below are some simple tips and tricks recommended by skin specialists for cracked hands prevention:

1. Always wash your hands with warm water.

2. Use soap only if the hands are dirty. 

3. Also, use soap for anything that won’t come off with water.

4. Wear gloves while washing dishes.

5. During cold weather, try to wear gloves outside.

6. Use a moisturizing cream on the hands after every wash of hands.

7. Keep your hands covered in extreme cold. 

What to expect?

In general, cracks in hands heal over in 1 week with treatment from a high-qualified dermatologist. However, some deeper cracks usually heal soon only if you keep them covered with the help of a crack sealer. That too may take a time of two weeks or more. 

When to consult a skin specialist for cracked hands?

You should immediately visit a dermatologist if you notice the following signs with your dry and cracked hands:

• An infection appears on hands with redness, red streak, and pus.

• If your hand’s cracks last more than two weeks on treatment.

• You think your hands need to be seen as they seem worsening day by day.