Chapped hands
I get painful splits on my thumbs and fingers from late autumn to late spring each year. They are 2-4mm long but deep, and any pressure causes further pain. What causes this and what could help?
Low humidity during the autumn and winter has a drying and irritating effect on the skin. Splits are a common condition from our middle years onwards, and are thought to be related to the skin's falling production of oils, which act as a natural barrier against the elements.
These factors, coupled with the drying effects of hand washing, commonly result in splits and cracks in both the fingers and hands. To help prevent them, avoid over-washing or immersing your hand in hot water. Don't use soap. Use a topical emollient cream after every hand wash and before you go to bed.
I wear rubber gloves and use hand cream. I find that paper and newsprint aggravate the problem.
Many common items can aggravate chapped hands. Paper, newsprint and inks can cause irritation to cracked, dried hands. Acids from fruits and vegetables can exacerbate the problem. Rubber gloves may be causing some of the problem. For dry activities use soft cotton gloves; for wet activities use cotton gloves under your rubber ones. If, despite all these steps, your hands are still sore, ask your GP for a mild hydrocortisone cream. You should also discuss with the doctor the possibility that your problem is the result of eczema.