What Should You Do If Your Hand Is Cracked?

Mar 03, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wan

Introduction

1. Dry skin: Skin dryness and cracking may occur when the surrounding air is excessively dry or when insufficient water is consumed. 2. Tinea manuum: A fungal infection of the hands that spreads via direct or indirect contact. 3. Eczema: A chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by intense pruritus, as well as infiltration and lichenification.

Cracked hands may result from dry skin, tinea manuum (hand fungus), or eczema. Depending on the underlying cause, symptoms can be alleviated through hydration and moisturization, or treated with medications. So, what should you do if your hands are cracked? Below, we address this question.

What to Do for Cracked Hands

1. Dry Skin

Excessively dry ambient air or inadequate water intake may lead to dry, cracked skin. Applying a nourishing hand cream helps hydrate and moisturize the skin, thereby relieving symptoms. Additionally, minimize contact with alkaline cleaning agents to prevent worsening of cracks. Proper hand care is also essential to support optimal recovery.

2. Tinea Manuum (Hand Fungus)

Tinea manuum is a fungal infection affecting the hands, transmitted via direct or indirect contact. It typically causes hyperkeratotic lesions on the palms, accompanied by scaling, dryness, and cracking. Topical antifungal agents—such as terbinafine hydrochloride cream—can help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, oral itraconazole capsules may be required.

3. Eczema

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by intense pruritus (itching), skin infiltration, lichenification (thickening), and symmetrical distribution. In severe cases, localized skin fissuring may occur. Symptomatic relief can be achieved using topical preparations such as compound calamine lotion to soothe itching, or compound dexamethasone acetate cream for anti-inflammatory treatment.

We hope the above information is helpful to you.

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What Causes and How to Treat Cracked Hands in Winter

The primary cause of chapped and cracked hands in winter is the cold, dry climate. During this season, the secretion functions of sebaceous and sweat glands decrease, leading to increased water loss from the epidermis of exposed skin areas. Under such dry, oil-deficient, and moisture-deficient conditions, the skin’s barrier function weakens, making it more susceptible to external irritants—resulting in peeling, cracking, bleeding, and pain.

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How to Quickly Heal Cracked Hands in Winter

During winter, if your hands develop cracks, you can apply topical ointments appropriately under a doctor’s guidance to promote rapid recovery. Hand fissures are typically caused by excessive cleansing and dry weather. As autumn and winter approach, applying products such as petroleum jelly or glycerin can help prevent skin dryness and cracking. For individuals experiencing dry, cracked hands, over-the-counter ointments containing mild corticosteroids are available at pharmacies.