Why is the skin on my fingers cracked?
Why is the skin on my fingers cracked and what can I do about it? The cause of cracked skin on the fingers is a damaged skin barrier, either congenital (atopic or allergic eczema) or acquired skin sensitivity (irritant eczema). It may also be another type of dermatitis, such as a cold reaction or fungal infection.
In people with allergies and atopic dermatitis, cracked skin on the fingers is a symptom of dyshidrotic eczema. It manifests itself as subcutaneous blisters that break out on the surface and burst. The skin is red, itchy and flaky. It most commonly appears on the inner and outer edges of the fingers.
You can find out how to treat dyshidrotic eczema HERE. Acquired irritant eczema is caused by repeated contact with substances that do not bother the skin when in occasional contact, but begin to irritate it with frequent contact. This type of eczema is more or less work-related.
Hairdressers are irritated by hair cosmetics, healthcare workers by disinfectants, mechanics by oils and petroleum products, cleaners by cleaning products, etc. This type of eczema is accompanied by very dry skin on the hands. In some places, especially on the palms, bellies and joints of the fingers, the skin becomes horny, forming a crust that cracks and bleeds.
Chronic eczema is also an acquired form of eczema. It is an acquired hypersensitivity of the skin due to daily use of substances that are harmful to the skin. They reduce its natural acidity and degrease it. This is mainly due to excessive hand washing with unsuitable soaps, gels and pastes, followed by insufficient hand skin care. Such hands are very dry, flaky, and the skin feels tight, is slightly reddened and sometimes itchy. You can read more about the treatment of chronic eczema HERE.
Cold reactions occur mainly in winter, in freezing temperatures. Cold and dry winter air dry out the skin, making it prone to damage. Microcracks appear on unprotected hands, especially on the fingertips and backs of the hands. They are treated in a similar way to chronic eczema.
Fungal infections appear on the fingers, mainly in the folds of the palms or under the nails. The skin is red, burns and cracks. Over-the-counter antifungal medications are used for treatment. It is important to follow the treatment for at least 14 days. Infections are very persistent and incomplete treatment causes the disease to flare up again.
