Cracked skinon the hands and feet is most often seen in winter. This is due to the dry air, which negatively affects the condition of the skin. However, this is not the rule, as there are a number of other reasons, including skin diseases, through which this effect persists. The following article outlines the most common causes of this condition.
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Cracked skin is a visible incision occurring most often on the hands and feet, through which the person suffering from this problem may experience discomfort in the form of itching or even bleeding. In some cases, an unpleasant sensation occurs when moisturiser is applied to the skin. The skin becomes extremely sensitive to the temperature of the water and to cleansers.
The most common causes of cracked skin are psoriasis and contact with an irritant substance. The condition also affects people who suffer from diabetes, but not exclusively.
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is manifested by a dry rash that causes itching. It appears when a person comes into contact with an irritant substance or one to which the sufferer is allergic.
An example of an allergy is latex, to which many people are allergic. Dermatitis can occur when wearing gloves made of this material. Dry hands can occur if hands are washed frequently, which can be especially noticeable now - during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, unfortunately still incurable at the moment. Sufferers have dry patches on their skin, most commonly located on the scalp, trunk and joints. In some cases, sufferers experience pain.
Tinea pedis
Tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot, is a fungal infection of the skin caused by various types of fungi, but most commonly by so-called dermatophytes. Places where there is a risk of infection include swimming pools and saunas, and inadequate hygiene compounds the risk of infection. Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, a rash between the toes, peeling and cracking of the skin.
Those with skin conditions that lead to cracking may require treatment of the underlying cause. If frequent moisturising and avoiding triggers does not help, a person should speak to a doctor.
Ways to treat cracking skin
The treatment for cracked skin depends largely on the cause and location of the condition.
When dealing with cracked skin during the winter and when washing hands frequently, it is recommended to moisturise the affected areas properly.
Cracked skin on the hands, photo: panthermedia
When choosing a moisturising cream for cracked skin, it is important to suggest the right ingredients in the first place.
Good effects on the condition of the skin include:
- olive oil,
- jojoba oil,
- shea butter,
- lactic acid,
- urea
- hyaluronic acid,
- glycerine.
Because hand sanitisers are created on the basis of alcohol, which dries out the skin, experts also recommend moisturising the skin after use.
For psoriasis , patients should also use moisturisers. However, they may require additional treatments to control exacerbations.
This may include:
- corticosteroid creams,
- calcineurin inhibitors,
- medications,
- antibiotics,
- uV light therapy.
Tinea pedis may subside when the patient changes footwear or starts using talcum powder. This is to negate excessive sweating. Athlete's foot may also require the use of antifungal products.
Proper hygiene
If cracked skin occurs, the patient should follow basic guidelines. One of these is to avoid washing hands in hot water, as this can worsen the skin condition.
In addition, dermatologists recommend:
- reducing bathing time to a maximum of 10 minutes,
- drying the skin by clapping rather than rubbing,
- washing exposed/sensitive areas with fragrance-free cosmetics,
- using moisturisers just after drying the skin,
- avoiding hot water.
Many specialists also recommend purchasing a humidifier to prevent dry lips. People who suffer from cracked skin are more prone to various infections. They should see a specialist if they notice worrying symptoms, such as oozing discharge, blood or severe redness, among others.
