What should I do if my hands are cracked?
Apr 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gan Liqiang
Introduction
There are many causes of hand skin fissures, such as eczema, chapped skin (fissures), neurodermatitis, and frequent occupational exposure to chemical irritants. Regularly apply hand cream; for two weeks, use Ziguizhi Cracked-Skin Ointment and Compound Triamcinolone Acetonide Ointment. Afterwards, prepare a herbal decoction using traditional Chinese medicine (e.g., lotus seedpod-based formula), boil it in water, and wash the affected area twice daily. Continue this washing regimen for one month. Avoid peeling or tearing the skin with your hands, as this may worsen the condition.
The skin on our hands comes into contact with numerous objects daily. Neglecting routine hand care can lead to cracking—diminishing aesthetic appeal and interfering with daily activities. So, what should you do if your hands crack?
What to Do for Cracked Hands
Cracked hands may result from various causes, including eczema, fissures, neurodermatitis, or frequent occupational exposure to chemical irritants. Regular application of hand oil is recommended. For two weeks, apply Ziguizhi Cracked-Hand Cream and Compound Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream. Afterwards, prepare a traditional Chinese herbal decoction using medicinal pouches (e.g., lotus leaf or other prescribed herbs), boil it in water, and use the warm solution to wash your hands twice daily for one month. Avoid peeling or tearing the cracked skin, as this may worsen the condition. Minimize direct contact with cement, sand, and other harsh chemicals. If intense itching occurs, oral antihistamines such as levocetirizine tablets or loratadine tablets may be taken.
Dryness or chronic dehydration of the hands commonly occurs during cold, dry seasons. During such periods, increase intake of healthy oils. Pay special attention to keeping your hands warm and protected from cold temperatures. Soak hands regularly in warm water and apply specialized moisturizing creams formulated for cracked skin to prevent frostbite and further fissuring.
In daily life, maintain a balanced and varied diet rich in vegetables and fruits, drink ample water, and consume moderate amounts of protein-rich foods to preserve skin hydration and elasticity—thus helping prevent hand cracking. Patients with prolonged illness or elderly individuals should enhance their nutritional intake, incorporating foods such as pork liver, pork skin, lamb, donkey-hide gelatin (ejiao), and cod liver oil capsules. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
