Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for cracked fingers

by Dr. Noel Thompson IV Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Cracked fingertips treatments and remedies

  • Apply essential oils. Essential oils contain mega nutrients that can help to nourish the skin on fingers as wells moisturizing and soothing the same skin.
  • Use moisturizer. ...
  • Avoid extreme or improper hand washing. ...
  • Treat underlying diseases. ...
  • Balanced diet. ...
  • Over the counter treatments. ...

Home treatment for cracked skin
  • Moisturizing ointment or cream. Since dry skin can cause or worsen cracking, it's important to keep your skin well hydrated. ...
  • Petroleum jelly. Petroleum jelly treats cracks by sealing and protecting your skin. ...
  • Topical hydrocortisone cream. ...
  • Liquid bandage. ...
  • Exfoliation. ...
  • Antifungal medication.
Oct 28, 2019

Full Answer

What is the best home remedy for Cracked Fingers?

  • First, be sure to keep your hands moisturized. ...
  • Slather up and don cotton gloves at night to keep the moisture in while you sleep.
  • Don't let the air in your home dry out too much.
  • Drink plenty of liquids. ...
  • Do a weekly paraffin wax treatment for extra moisturizing. ...

Which hand cream is best for Cracked Fingers?

The 21 best hand creams of 2021

  • Aesop: Best overall hand cream. ...
  • Augustinus Bader: Best luxury hand cream. ...
  • Burt’s Bees: Best value hand cream. ...
  • NUORI Vital: Best natural hand cream. ...
  • Natura Bissé: Best anti-ageing hand cream. ...
  • Caudalie: Best hand cream for brightening skin. ...
  • L’Occitane: Best hand cream with shea butter. ...
  • Algenist: Best hand cream with collagen. ...
  • Le Labo: Best hand pomade. ...

More items...

What is the best lotion for Cracked Fingers?

Shea butter is anti-inflammatory, absorbs quickly, and holds moisture really well once it seeps into your skin. In fact, shea butter, along with other Hand Salve ingredients including dimethicone and glycerin, are considered to be the best ingredients one can use to combat dry skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

How to heal extremely dry cracked hands?

Steps Download Article

  1. As part of your nightly preparation for bed, apply a liberal coating of Vaseline or A&D Ointment only on the backs of your hands in the affected areas.
  2. Place a sandwich bag over one of your hands.
  3. Wrap masking tape around your wrist to keep the bag in place. ...
  4. Slip a bag over the other hand and secure it with tape as well.

More items...

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How to heal a cracked finger?

1. Olive Oil. Using olive oil is the first tip on how to heal cracked fingertips fast at home. Olive oil is considered one of the most versatile oils, which is good for health, hair and skin. That is why this natural oil appears in many skin care products, especially moisturizers.

What is the best oil for cracked fingertips?

Rose Essential Oil. No wonder, this is definitely one that should be mentioned in this list of tips on how to heal cracked fingertips fast. Rose essential oil is extracted from rose petals, with steam distillation. Damascus Rose is a type of rose commonly used for the distillation and extraction of rose essential oils.

What does it mean when your fingertips crack?

Cracked fingertips are a common skin condition, especially in people who are frequently exposed to detergents. It usually occurs in winter. Cracked fingertips will cause skin to crack and peel, causing pain to the patient. Although the new skin is quickly formed, it is very thin and very easy to peel.

Why do my fingers crack in winter?

Cracked fingertips usually occur in winter. The reason is that the skin has not adapted to the sudden change of temperature. Besides, the cold and dry weather makes the skin susceptible to dehydration. Therefore, the skin may be dry, cracked and peeling.

What causes a cracked finger?

Some fungi, viruses, and bacteria can cause cracked fingertips. Not just on the tips of the fingers, this condition can also occur on the hands, feet, and toes. The bad news is that this condition is quite difficult to be treated completely.

How to make your hands feel better after using olive oil?

Warm olive oil in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Mix olive oil and coconut oil in a ratio of 1:1, stir well. Apply this mixture on fingertips, massage gently for 2-3 minutes. After about 15-20 minutes, wash your hands with cool water. Try to execute this method 2-3 times a day to gradually treat your skin condition.

Why do my fingers feel sore?

The new skin layer will quickly form, but it is very thin. If you do not keep your fingers clean, you may have secondary infections. This makes you feel sore, itchy and burning at the tip of your fingers.

Winter Is Hard on Skin

Q. Every year during the winter months, I have a problem with my thumbs cracking at the edge of my thumbnails. It takes weeks for them to heal, and the cracks are very painful. They do not respond to any crack creams or lotions. They clear up on their own only to reappear a few weeks later. They look exactly like a cut, but they hurt a lot more.

Instant Glue to the Rescue

We have heard from a great many visitors that different kinds of instant glue can seal cracked fingertips. Here are just a few stories:

Vicks VapoRub and Vaseline to the Rescue

Glue is not the only option. Although some readers have not been satisfied with any ointments or lotions, others have found brands that help:

Other Strategies for Cracked Fingertips

We recently shared a story from a reader who has type 2 diabetes. She complained of thin fingernails. Her podiatrist recommended a dietary supplement called biotin. To her surprise it also worked for cracked fingertips. You can read her story at this link and read about the pros and cons of biotin.

Speaking of Lip Balm

What about chapped lips? If your lips are dry, why not try our Natural Lip Care products:

Share your own success story

If you’ve experienced cracked fingertips or dry cracked hands and skin, what’s worked for you? Please leave your story in the comment section below.

What to do when your hands are dry?

If your hands are dry, look for a hand cream with a richer formula, and rub it into the skin so it gets absorbed. Keep some hand cream handy for whenever you feel dry. Janine Ngai for LittleThings.

Why do my hands get cracked in winter?

Cracked and chapped skin is more common in the winter due to the cold wind and comparatively drier air. Exposed skin, such as on the hands ...

How to get rid of a scaly skin?

Before going to bed, slather your hands with a good amount of hand cream. Use more than you'd use during the day. Then put on some cotton spa gloves and go to sleep. The gloves will prevent the cream from getting all over your sheets, and they'll also ensure that your skin drinks in all that moisture.

Why do my fingers get dry?

Worst of all can be the way the cold affects your skin, leading to dry or cracked fingertips. Cold air holds less moisture, which means that it's much dryer than warm air, and can leave your skin feeling rough, dry, and stinging. Add to that some biting wind, and your skin can really take a beating.

Can you use super glue on a wound?

Before supergluing yourself to everything, a word of caution: glue should NOT be used on deep or puncture wounds, and always make sure to read any and all packaging before putting anything on your skin, as some glues contain chemicals that can irritate skin.

Can you crack your fingers in winter?

This kind of cracking can also happen on other areas of the hands, like the knuckles. And when your fingers hurt, doing even the simplest of daily tasks can feel just impossible. Luckily, there are ways you can prevent and heal dry, cracked fingertips and keep your hands soft, nimble, and pain-free all winter.

What is it called when your fingers are dry?

Cracks in your fingers can make even the simplest tasks, such as typing, turning a page, or buttoning a button very painful. Medically, dry skin is called xerosis. It is often a natural part of aging, though it can also be an early sign of a condition such as dermatitis. Most often, the skin becomes drier and more irritated in the winter months. ...

How to treat a swollen hand?

Treatment. The best treatment, according to Reed, is prevention. If possible, avoid over-washing, especially with lathering soaps containing detergents that can further dry the skin. Moisturize several times a day with a thick, emollient (lubricating) hand cream or lotion.

What to do if your hands are swollen?

Reed recommends speaking to your dermatologist or healthcare provider if your hands are causing you discomfort. In particular, seek medical attention immediately if your hands are swollen, bleeding, have a honey-colored crust on any cracks, or if you see red streaks moving up your arm.

How to get rid of dry skin?

For dry work like gardening, try wearing cloth gloves. Additionally, the National Institute on Aging recommends taking care of your skin with adjustments to your daily routine. 2  Less time in the sun, shorter and cooler showers and baths, and drinking a proper amount of liquids can help.

Can super glue be used on a wound?

Part of a group of adhesive chemicals called cyanoacrylates, super glue can be used for very superficial cuts and cracks, according to Reed. While it should never be used for deep wounds and is poisonous if swallowed, super glue “is quick, easy, and stays where you put it,” said Reed.

Can you use super glue on cracks?

It is also recommended that you do not use super glue on a regular basis. She does caution against so-called “liquid bandage” solutions for skin cracks. “Many liquid bandage products contain too much alcohol for patients with skin that is already exceedingly dry; they can make the problem worse.”.

How to prevent cracks in hands?

(If you already have the cracks, scroll on down to the treatment section; then come back and read this prevention section.) First, be sure to keep your hands moisturized.

Can you be without cracked fingers?

You'll never be without it again if you suffer with cracked fingers. This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and does not substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, and/or dietary advice from a licensed health professional.

How to fix a cracked finger?

Super glue can be a quick fix to heal cracked fingertips. Just a dab of it will keep your skin covered ( 12 ). However, some glues may be made of ingredients that can irritate your skin. So, make sure you look at the packaging before going ahead with this remedy. Back To TOC. 10. Liquid Bandage.

What is the best way to treat cracked hands?

Epsom salt is widely used for soothing and rejuvenating the skin. Soaking your hands in an Epsom salt solution can help in the removal of dead skin cells from your skin, thereby helping treat cracked fingertips ( 3 ). Back To TOC. 4. Coconut Oil.

Why do my fingers peel off?

They are: Peeling and cracked skin may also be due to some underlying medical conditions like: Allergies: If your skin comes in contact with an allergen, it may begin to peel. Niacin (or Vitamin B3) deficiency.

How to treat cracked hands?

Wear a pair of moisturizing gel gloves that are special ly made for treating dry and cracked hands. If you cannot find such gloves, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to both your hands and seal it in using cotton gloves. Leave it on overnight.

Why does Flexitol peel my fingers?

Flexitol is antifungal and can thus protect your chapped fingers from microbial infections as well. For most people, cracked and peeling skin is mostly a result of climate changes. If it is that time of the year again where your skin has begun to turn dry, you can take the following precautions. Back To TOC.

Why does my thumb peel?

Dry, hot, and cold weathers. Sucking on the thumb. Subscribe. Peeling and cracked skin may also be due to some underlying medical conditions like: Allergies: If your skin comes in contact with an allergen, it may begin to peel. Niacin (or Vitamin B3) deficiency.

How to make a paraffin glove?

Take a block of paraffin wax and heat it. Wash your hands with a mild soap and moisturize them. Immerse your hands in the wax and leave them in for a few seconds. Take your hands out and repeat this process 3 to 4 times. By now, a paraffin glove must have formed on your hands.

What to do if your hands are cracked?

You can usually treat cracked skin with remedies like petroleum jelly, moisturizing creams, mild hydrocortisone creams, and liquid bandages.

How to treat a cracked skin?

A liquid skin bandage can treat deeper skin cracks. This OTC treatment works by holding the cracked skin together, which encourages healing. To apply a liquid bandage, read the directions on the packaging. Most liquid bandages involve applying the liquid with a small brush. The liquid will dry and seal the skin.

How to get rid of cracked skin on feet?

Exfoliation. Gentle exfoliation can remove dead, dry cells from the surface of your skin. This remedy is most often recommended for cracked feet and heels. To exfoliate your feet: Soak your feet in water for 20 minutes. Use a loofah or pumice stone to gently scrub away the dry skin. Pat dry and apply a moisturizer.

What is the best cream for itching?

Topical hydrocortisone cream. A topical hydrocortisone cream can be a good option for cracked skin that has red patches or itching. This type of cream contains corticosteroids, which reduce irritation and swelling. Hydrocortisone creams are available in different strengths.

Why do my heels crack?

Diabetic neuropathy. Cracked heels are a common complication of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The condition can lead to diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage due to diabetes. In diabetic neuropathy, your nerves can’t properly control the skin’s moisture. This can lead to dryness and cracking, especially on the feet.

How long does it take for cracked skin to heal?

When to see a doctor. Mild cases of cracked skin can be treated at home. But if your cracked skin doesn’t get better after 2 weeks of treatment, or if it gets worse, be sure to see your doctor. You should also seek medical attention if you have cracked skin that’s: bleeding.

What is the best product for dry cracked skin?

You may want to consider the following products that can be especially helpful for treating dry, cracked skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream.

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What Causes Painful, Cracked fingertips?

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In most cases, cracked and peeling skin around the fingertips is caused by dry skin. Cracked and painful fingers are a sign of very dry skin, known as xerosis. Many people experience dry skin from certain products and environmental triggers, such as:1 1. Harsh chemicals in hand soaps and cleaning products 2. Dry climates 3. A…
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Symptoms

  • Symptoms of painful, cracked fingertips may include: 1. Very dry skin, which may appear red, flaky, or inflamed 2. Cracks in the skin 3. Discoloration in the fingernails 4. Brittle or broken fingernails Remember that these symptoms can also be indicative of other skin conditions or underlying medical conditions. You should consult your healthcare provider if they don't heal on …
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Diagnosis and Treatment

  • If you’re experiencing dry, painful fingertips, you can begin treatment at home. If your skin starts to heal as a result of at-home treatment, continue the routine in order to keep dry skin at bay. To keep your hands well moisturized at home:6 1. After washing your hands, leave them slightly damp or allow them to air-dry. 2. While your hands are damp, apply hand cream, focusing on the …
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A Word from Verywell

  • Having dry, cracked, and painful fingertips can be uncomfortable and unsightly. However, there is hope for healing. Implementing a regular moisturizing routine and using hand cream after you wash your hands can help heal cracked fingertips. If moisturizing regularly doesn’t work, you should speak with a dermatologist or healthcare provider to get a professional opinion. Rememb…
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Symptoms

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The most common signs of severely dry skin are rough, flaky, or scaly skin. You might also notice that your skin is red. If you have darker skin, it may appear gray. An itchy feeling is common, too. If your skin becomes too dry, the cracks may bleed. Then the pain may intensify to the point that it wakes you up in the middle …
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Causes

  • As people age, their skin becomes thinner and drier and produces less oil. The sun, wind, and other elements take their toll, too. Still, some people are more prone to develop severely dry skin, says Dr. Barbara Reed, a dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Colorado. “Some people just make less oil in their skin, and others are more sensitive to chemic…
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Treatment

  • The best treatment, Reed says, is prevention. If possible, avoid over-washing, especially with lathering soaps, which can contain chemical detergents that can further dry out the skin. Moisturize several times a day with a thick emollient (lubricating) hand cream or lotion. Look for ingredients like petrolatum, wax, and shea butter. A gentle hypoal...
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When to See A Healthcare Provider

  • Reed recommends speaking to your dermatologist or healthcare provider if your hands are causing you great discomfort. And seek medical attention immediately if your hands are swollen, bleeding, have a honey-colored crust on any cracks, or if you see red streaks moving up your arm. These are symptoms of a more serious infection.
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Summary

  • You know dry skin when you see it. It can become rough, flaky, and red. It can even bleed. Pinpointing a cause can be tricky because there could be several contributing factors, such as how often you wash your hands during the day and your age. You can ease the discomfort by taking steps such as being vigilant about applying moisturizer and avoiding irritating chemicals. …
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A Word from Verywell

  • It's only natural that your skin becomes drier as you age. And you may notice the change even more during the cold or winter months. Keep your skin moisturized. If using a moisturizer is a new habit for you, give it time to become part of your daily routine. You'll probably be glad you did.
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