Cracked skin on the hands
Cracked hands are a problem that can cause discomfort and even pain. The cause is usually extreme dryness of the skin, which leads to the formation of cracks and fissures. Careful care and prevention are important to alleviate the condition and prevent recurrence.
Causes of cracked hands:
Skin dryness: Extreme temperatures (cold, heat), insufficient hydration, harsh cleaning products and certain medications can dry out the skin and lead to cracks.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies: A lack of vitamins A, E, C, zinc and iodine can contribute to dry and cracked skin.
Ageing: Age and hormonal changes can reduce the skin's ability to retain moisture.
Diseases: Certain diseases, such as psoriasis, eczema, diabetes and thyroid disorders, can cause dry skin.
Sometimes it's an extreme strain on your hands, such as repeated washing, cleaning or handling chemicals.
Prevention and care for cracked hands:
Hydration: Use hand creams with moisturising ingredients (glycerine, hyaluronic acid, petroleum jelly) and apply them regularly, especially after washing.
Gentle washing: Use alcohol- and paraben-free soaps that are gentle on sensitive skin.
Avoid harsh products: Limit the use of hot water and harsh disinfectants.
Peeling: Peeling gently on a regular basis to remove dry skin and allow the cream to absorb better.
Internal hydration: Stay hydrated and include foods rich in vitamins E and C, zinc and omega-3 in your diet.
Support regeneration: Treat damaged skin with wraps or baths containing regenerative ingredients such as oatmeal or oak bark extracts.
Protection: Wear gloves when working with chemicals, cleaning and in cold weather.
Avoid harsh products: Limit the use of hot water and harsh disinfectants.
When caring for cracked hands, it is advisable to use Dermaguard barrier cream to gradually restore the skin and its natural barrier. Dermaguard cream creates an invisible protective shield on the skin against most allergens found in the environment. Because the allergen does not penetrate the skin, it remains unirritated. The protection lasts for around 4-6 hours. The cream also effectively moisturises the skin without leaving it feeling greasy and strengthens the skin barrier. It can be used on any part of the body except the mucous membranes. The cream contains dimethicone, which gradually evaporates from the skin under the influence of sweat acidity. The cream is unscented.
Professional help: If the condition worsens or unpleasant symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist.
Home remedies:
Oatmeal wraps: Oatmeal broth with oil can be used as a wrap for cracks to help with healing.
Baths with extracts: A weak solution of hypermanganese, oak bark extract or black tea can help with dryness.
Ichthyol ointment: Helps prevent secondary infection and keeps the skin supple.
It is important not to use any home remedies without consulting a doctor if the condition worsens or lasts longer than a few days.
