Dermatologist tips for treating dry, cracked hands

Dermatologist tips for treating dry, cracked hands

(James Boley)


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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah winters are known for world-class skiing and snowboarding.

But for many individuals, they also signal the arrival of chapped skin and painful cracks on the hands.

Why is it that our hands and fingers often develop cracks in the winter months? According to Dr. David Myers, a dermatologist at Utah Valley Dermatology in Lehi, the low humidity climate is a prime culprit. But it's not just an outdoor issue. The seasonal use of central heating and increased hand-washing also play a big role.

These factors can combine to cause rough, dry skin all over the body. But one of the most annoying manifestations of it is cracked skin on the hands. They sting incessantly and often seem to grow worse on a daily basis.

"Don't neglect your hands," insisted Dr. Myers. "Emollients (lotions or creams) should be applied liberally and frequently to heal the skin. The best time to use lotions is right after washing hands. This crucial step helps trap in the water and is often missed."

Dr. Myers recommended people use a waterless sanitizer like Purell. These sanitizers kill bacteria instantly, without stripping the oils off your hands like soap and hot water do.

"Use soap and water if your hands are visibly soiled," he said. "Otherwise, use waterless sanitizers as often as possible. This will save your chapped winter hands."

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When choosing which lotion to use, a good rule of thumb is the thicker the better. The lighter lotions often don't have the staying power needed for lasting impact during winter.

If a stinging sensation is felt while applying hand lotion, it's due to the alcohol in the lotion making contact with the cracks in the skin. Applying lotion just after wetting hands generally won't cause a sting.

"I recommend applying a thin layer of Vaseline, or thicker cream to the dried, cracked skin when it is severe," suggested Dr. Myers. "This prevents the stinging sensation and can also help speed up healing time."

Dr. Myers had one final tip that may come as a surprise to some people: seal off cracked fingers or heels with Super Glue.

"I recommend it all the time for fissures," he said. "It's safe and allows the cracks to heal from the inside out while the glue eventually wears off."


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About the Author: Grant Olsen -----------------------------

Grant Olsen joined the KSL.com contributor team in 2012. He covers outdoor adventures, travel, product reviews and other interesting things. He is also the author of the book "Rhino Trouble." You can contact him at grantorrin@gmail.com.

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