Cracked hands cause significant discomfort and pain. This common issue, characterized by dryness, redness, and sometimes bleeding fissures, requires effective solutions. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing targeted strategies can heal existing cracks and prevent their recurrence.
Why Hands Crack
Hands crack primarily due to excessive dryness and compromised skin barrier function. Natural skin oils maintain moisture; their depletion leads to hydration loss, shrinking, and cracking. Environmental factors like cold weather, low humidity, and indoor heating also contribute to skin dehydration.
Frequent hand washing, especially with hot water and harsh soaps, strips the skin of its protective oils, worsening dryness. Exposure to chemical irritants in cleaning products, detergents, and hand sanitizers can damage the skin’s barrier, causing irritation and cracking. Medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis also cause dryness, inflammation, and cracking.
Effective Strategies for Healing Cracked Hands
Healing existing hand cracks involves an approach focused on restoring moisture and protecting compromised skin. Regular application of heavy-duty moisturizers is foundational. Ointments and creams are more effective than lotions at retaining moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, and petroleum jelly, which attract and seal in hydration. A protective layer of petroleum jelly also locks in moisture and shields skin from irritants, aiding healing.
Use mild, fragrance-free soaps for gentle cleansing to avoid stripping natural oils. Wear gloves during household chores (like washing dishes) or in cold weather to protect hands from further irritation and prevent worsening cracks. For specific cracks, over-the-counter treatments like hydrocortisone cream can reduce inflammation and itching. Liquid bandages create a protective, waterproof seal over small cuts, promoting healing. For intensive nighttime care, apply a thick layer of moisturizer or petroleum jelly and cover hands with cotton gloves to enhance hydration and repair.
Preventing Future Hand Cracks
Once cracks heal, implementing preventative measures is important to maintain skin integrity and prevent recurrence. Drink enough water to maintain body hydration, supporting overall skin health and reducing dryness. Identify and minimize exposure to irritants like harsh soaps, overly hot water, and certain chemicals to protect the skin’s barrier.
Establish a consistent moisturizing routine, even when hands feel healthy, to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier. Regular application of hand cream throughout the day, particularly after washing, helps to replenish lost moisture. Use humidifiers in dry indoor environments, especially during colder months, to add moisture to the air and prevent skin dehydration. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins also contributes to healthier skin.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many cracked hands improve with home care, some signs require professional medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if cracks are deep, bleeding persistently, or show signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or a honey-colored crust. These symptoms may indicate a bacterial infection needing prescription treatment.
Consult a doctor if cracked skin does not improve after one to two weeks of diligent home treatment. Severe pain or discomfort that interferes with daily activities or sleep should also prompt consultation. If an underlying skin condition like eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis is suspected, a dermatologist can provide an accurate diagnosis and specialized treatment plan.