cracking skin on finger tips

Hello,

I would like to ask a question regarding a skin problem I have had for the past 2-3 years, and no dermatologist seemed to find a solution. I have cracked skin at the tips of my fingers, mostly of both my thumbs. When the skin cracks it hurts and limits my function. Than the skin peels off untill the next crack. I tried to apply iodine to the cracks which improves the pain a bit, but does not solve the problem.
Do you have any advice for me?

Thank you
Simon

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Cracking fingertips can be due to contact dermatitis and contact with harsh detergents, soaps and lotions. Sometimes cold, dry air can cause  peeling and dermatitis or fungal infections can also cause peeling.

Wash the areas several times with fresh water. Do not use any cosmetic products at the sites. You can apply some calamine lotion at the rash as it will help in soothing the skin. For mild-moderate symptoms a weak steroid may be used, whilst more severe cases require a higher-potency steroid.

Symptoms can be exacerbated by dryness of the skin. Use good quality moisturizers to prevent moisture loss from the skin. During the day, hydrate and protect hands with a protective and moisturizing cream. At night, repair them with creams formulated from glycolic acid—a must for improving skin texture and tone. If still the symptoms do not improve then please get a clinical examination done by a dermatologist. Fungal infections and eczema have to be ruled out then. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[jeepgirl84]

Try using Neosporin on the cracks and put a bandaid on it. Even after it goes away, continue rubbing the cream into the area. Hope this helps.

[Sean1068]

I use a product called LipoHydroDerm that is made specifically for cracked fingers and skin.  Works great and is quick to heal.