Cracked skin on hands – causes, symptoms, and treatment
Cracked skin on the hands is a painful aesthetic issue that affects many people. This condition can result not only from skincare mistakes but also from dietary factors. Dry hands can also be linked to skin diseases or internal health conditions. Why do your hands itch? How to address cracked skin from within? Why does skin peel off your hands? What are the home remedies for cracked skin?
Table of contents
- Cracked skin on hands: what does it mean and what are the symptoms?
- Why is the skin peeling off your hands? The most common causes
- Peeling skin on hands - external factors
- Cracked skin on hands - internal factors
- What symptoms accompany extremely dry hands?
- Cracked skin on hands? Check if you are lacking vitamins!
- Dietary supplements for cracked skin on hands
- What to do when the skin on your hands cracks?
- How to care for cracked skin on hands? Proven methods!
- How to prevent cracked skin on hands? Practical tips
- Peeling skin on hands - summary
Cracked skin on hands: what does it mean and what are the symptoms?
Skin cracking can occur in various parts of the body, but it is most commonly found on the hands due to the skin's structure. The skin on the hands is thinner than in other areas of the body, and it contains less subcutaneous fat and fewer sebaceous glands. To make matters worse, the lipid layer on the hands, which serves as a protective barrier, is frequently exposed to external factors, leading to damage and deterioration. This increases the risk of irritation and loss of skin elasticity.
The problem can affect various parts of the hands. Commonly, skin cracks between the fingers and on the fingers themselves. In some cases, the skin around the nails may crack, or fungal infections and peeling skin can occur. Dry skin on the hands may cause itching and burning, as well as redness. Painful and swollen hands can lead to discomfort, and wounds on the fingers can make everyday tasks more difficult.
Why is the skin peeling off your hands? The most common causes
Cracked skin on the hands is a common issue, particularly during the fall and winter months. Skin cracking is most often associated with dryness, which may result from damage to the natural hydrolipidic barrier of the epidermis. This increases the skin’s susceptibility to external factors and mechanical damage.
However, internal factors, often related to ongoing health issues, can also influence extremely dry hands. For example, peeling skin on the hands may be related to infections, contact dermatitis, allergies, or eczema.
Peeling skin on hands - external factors
Cracked skin on the hands during the winter may be caused by unfavorable weather conditions such as low temperatures, frost, or strong winds. Peeling skin can also result from staying in heated indoor spaces, where the air tends to be dry, or from not wearing gloves in cold temperatures, which can lead to frostbite and skin irritation.
External factors that negatively affect the skin’s condition also include detergents and chemicals used in everyday household cleaning, especially when cleaning without protective gloves. Red, irritated hands may also be caused by:
- using low-quality cosmetics
- rubbing hands too harshly after washing
- frequent contact with water
- hard water usage
- improper hand care
- exposing skin to UV rays without sunscreen
Cracked skin on hands - internal factors
The condition of the skin on the hands may also be influenced by internal factors, including systemic diseases and dermatological conditions such as:
- thyroid disorders
- diabetes
- psoriasis
- eczema
- fungal skin infections
- atopic dermatitis
Skin changes can also be triggered by allergic reactions, such as a nickel allergy, which may occur when wearing jewelry or clothing made from allergenic materials. Moreover, the problem of dry and cracked skin on the hands can result from deficiencies in essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin E, and zinc.
What symptoms accompany extremely dry hands?
Symptoms that may accompany very dry hands and cracked skin include:
- skin peeling
- pain and swelling
- itching
- redness
- burning sensation
- formation of small cuts
- roughness of the skin
- peeling skin
Cuts on the hands can increase the risk of infection, and inadequate drying of hands, especially between the fingers, can contribute to fungal skin infections.
Cracked skin on hands? Check if you are lacking vitamins!
Although cracked skin on the hands and peeling skin from the fingers are painful aesthetic issues, they can also result from a lack of vitamins and minerals, which leads to insufficient intake of essential nutrients.
Studies show that vitamin A plays a significant role in skin health. It can strengthen the epidermal barrier, reduce water loss, and promote skin cell renewal and regeneration. Additionally, vitamin A can help soothe inflammation and activate collagen and elastin production, slowing down the aging process. Vitamin E is also important; it supports the synthesis of new collagen and elastin fibers, enhances skin hydration, and strengthens its protective barrier, improving the skin’s resistance to damage.
Vitamin B group deficiencies can also contribute to cracked skin on the hands. These vitamins help maintain proper skin hydration and reduce irritation and inflammation, promoting the renewal of damaged skin cells. Some water-soluble B vitamins, such as thiamine, can also aid in repair processes, speeding up wound healing and skin regeneration.
Furthermore, minerals like zinc and selenium can positively affect the skin’s condition. Research suggests that zinc improves the skin’s resistance to infections, accelerates wound healing, and reduces skin inflammation. Selenium, on the other hand, can neutralize the harmful effects of UV radiation on the skin, alleviating irritation and providing anti-allergic properties.
Dietary supplements for cracked skin on hands
For individuals whose dry, red skin and cracked hands result from vitamin and mineral deficiencies, dietary supplements can be a helpful solution. These supplements provide concentrated sources of the desired nutrients.
OstroVit Pharma Vitamin A+E drops may support hand skin regeneration, as they provide both valuable vitamins with antioxidant properties. This efficient supplement is available in drop form, ensuring easy intake of essential substances.
For people with damaged hands due to work and who want to strengthen their skin, OstroVit Beauty Blend Hair & Skin may be an excellent choice. This product contains biotin, collagen, and vitamin A in a delicious vanilla flavor.
Consumers seeking comprehensive skin support should consider OstroVit Pharma Healthy Skin, which provides 12 different substances that positively affect skin health.
For those who prefer convenient shots, OstroVit Biotin & Vitamin A & Zinc & Vitamin B2 Shot is a great option, offering a delightful orange-peach flavor while improving both taste and hand skin condition.
What to do when the skin on your hands cracks?
To improve the condition of the skin, it's important to focus on proper care and protection. If the changes are concerning, such as when the skin is peeling off or there are cracked hands with deep wounds or visible conditions like psoriasis, fungal infections, or skin inflammation, it’s recommended to consult a doctor to determine the best course of action and the appropriate dermatological treatment.
A dermatologist may recommend steroid creams or prescription-based ointments. In some cases, oral medications or vitamin supplements may also be advised.
How to care for cracked skin on hands? Proven methods!
Cracked skin on the hands requires appropriate care, which can alleviate undesirable symptoms and sometimes completely eliminate the problem. Proper treatment, especially when there is redness or itching on the inner side of the hands, can prevent inflammation and infections and reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Effective home remedies for cracked hands include:
- Paraffin treatment: Dip your hands in warm cosmetic paraffin and then wear cotton gloves.
- Hand oiling: Soak your hands in warm vegetable oil, massage it into the skin, and wear cotton gloves afterward.
- Flaxseed mask: Grind the seeds, pour hot water over them, and apply the mixture to your hands for about 20 minutes.
- Dry hand compress: Generously apply cream to your hands and wear cotton gloves overnight.
Additionally, professional cosmetic treatments, such as gentle peels or moisturizing and regenerating treatments, can help dry and cracked hands, especially between the fingers.
To improve hand skin condition, it's important to choose cosmetics carefully. Look for creams that contain vitamin A, glycerin, D-panthenol, allantoin, natural plant oils, urea, and ceramides. Hand creams should be applied after every hand wash to ensure optimal hydration.
If the skin problem is particularly bothersome, symptoms worsen, or home remedies are ineffective, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and proper treatment.
How to prevent cracked skin on hands? Practical tips
To prevent cracked skin on the hands, it’s crucial to pay attention to proper care and daily habits:
- Avoid frequent contact with hot water, detergents, and chemicals that may irritate the skin.
- Wear protective gloves when cleaning or doing household chores.
- After washing your hands, always apply a moisturizing cream, and in the summer, use protective creams.
- Pay attention to the ingredients in your daily skincare products and opt for those with natural compositions and valuable ingredients.
- Once a week, use a hand peel or mask.
- At night, apply a thick layer of cream and wear cotton gloves.
- Avoid exposing your hands to harsh weather conditions - especially in winter, wear gloves.
Hand care isn’t just about external treatments; proper nutrition is also essential. A balanced diet rich in macro- and micronutrients, such as zinc, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin E, and B vitamins, is crucial for maintaining skin health.
Furthermore, skin issues aren't limited to adults. Children can also experience peeling skin on their hands, so it’s important to focus on proper hygiene, skin hydration, and avoiding irritating factors from an early age.
Peeling skin on hands - summary
Cracked skin on the hands, which may include redness, itching, and a burning sensation, can have many causes. Extremely dry skin may result from improper care or nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, the condition can be caused by dermatological disorders or systemic diseases.
To improve the condition of your hands, focus on proper care and change your daily habits. Home remedies and a consultation with a specialist who can diagnose the problem and recommend appropriate treatment may help alleviate symptoms and restore optimal hydration to the skin.
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