Persistent Skin Cracking: Causes, Treatments, and Home Remedies

Q: Persistent Skin Cracking: Causes, Treatments, and Home Remedies

Dear Miss Chang： Based on your age of 17, the possible causes are as follows： 1. Excessive sweating of the hands： Hyperhidrosis can lead to peeling. 2. Playing sports： Basketball can cause friction-related issues. 3. Excessive typing on a computer keyboard can

Unexplained skin laceration?

I have been experiencing constant skin cracking at the tips of my fingers for four years.
I haven't done any housework or come into contact with any chemicals.
The first doctor said it was due to excessive mental stress and prescribed an ointment from their clinic.
The second doctor diagnosed it as "dishydrotic eczema" and prescribed urea cream.
However, I feel that I don't need exfoliation as my hands are very delicate, and applying these creams regularly hasn't been effective.
Should I continue using these ointments? It seems like they are not helping at all.
Is this condition really "dishydrotic eczema"? But I haven't been using my hands much.
Are over-the-counter hand creams suitable for me? Can I wear gloves like those used by military police? I didn't take care of this before, and it has now progressed to the point where my middle finger is the most severely affected, and it is bleeding.
When I squeeze it, there is also a clear fluid (lymphatic fluid?), which is causing inconvenience in my daily life.

Zhang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/10/10

Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology

Dear Miss Chang: Based on your age of 17, the possible causes are as follows: 1.
Excessive sweating of the hands: Hyperhidrosis can lead to peeling.
2.
Playing sports: Basketball can cause friction-related issues.
3.
Excessive typing on a computer keyboard can also lead to friction-related problems.
4.
Other possibilities include the use of hand creams; if necessary, you may need to apply ointment, but it is best to consult a dermatologist to determine the exact cause.
Please avoid squeezing out any tissue fluid.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jiang Yu-Jiao, Head of Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2007/10/10

More Info

Persistent skin cracking, particularly at the fingertips, can be a frustrating and painful condition. Given that you've been experiencing this issue for four years without significant improvement, it's essential to explore the potential causes, treatments, and home remedies that may help alleviate your symptoms.

Possible Causes
1. Environmental Factors: Dry air, especially during winter months, can lead to skin dehydration. Frequent handwashing or exposure to water can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and cracking.

2. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis) or psoriasis can cause persistent dryness and cracking. "富貴手" (also known as "dishydrotic eczema") is characterized by small blisters on the hands and can lead to cracking skin.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential fatty acids, vitamins (especially Vitamin E), and minerals can affect skin health. A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining skin integrity.

4. Stress: Psychological stress can manifest physically, leading to skin issues. Stress management techniques may be beneficial.

Treatment Options
1. Topical Treatments: You mentioned using urea cream, which is effective for dry skin as it helps to retain moisture. If you feel that the current treatments are ineffective, it may be worth consulting a dermatologist for alternative topical therapies, such as:
- Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation if there is an underlying dermatitis.

- Barrier Creams: Products containing ceramides or glycerin can help restore the skin barrier.

2. Moisturizers: Regular application of a thick, emollient moisturizer is crucial. Look for products that contain ingredients like:
- Petrolatum: Provides a protective barrier.

- Shea Butter: Offers deep hydration.

- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts moisture to the skin.

3. Avoid Irritants: If you are using any harsh soaps or hand sanitizers, consider switching to gentler, fragrance-free options. Wearing gloves while doing dishes or cleaning can also protect your hands from irritants and moisture loss.

4. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Home Remedies
1. Oatmeal Baths: Colloidal oatmeal can soothe irritated skin and provide moisture. Consider soaking your hands in an oatmeal bath.

2. Honey: Known for its natural healing properties, applying honey to the affected areas can help retain moisture and promote healing.

3. Coconut Oil: This natural oil can be an effective moisturizer and may help in healing cracked skin.

4. Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the air, which can be particularly helpful during dry seasons.

Lifestyle Adjustments
- Stress Management: Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, or regular exercise.

- Dietary Changes: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) and antioxidants (fruits and vegetables) to support skin health.

Conclusion
Given the chronic nature of your symptoms, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a dermatologist who specializes in skin disorders. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and may suggest additional treatments or tests to determine the underlying cause of your persistent skin cracking. In the meantime, continue to use moisturizers and protective measures, and consider the suggested home remedies to help manage your symptoms. Remember, consistency is key in skincare, and it may take time to see improvement.

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