Prophylaxis | Cracked fingertips

Prophylaxis

For people who have very sensitive fingertips and, for example, often suffer from cracked fingertips in winter, there are some measures that can be taken to protect themselves against the formation of cracks and prevent them from developing. It is recommended that dry fingertips are always kept moist with plenty of ointment. Products that are particularly helpful here are urea-containing hand creams or ointments containing lanolin.

The conventional vaseline or Bepanthen ointment also helps to increase the moisture of the affected areas and prevent the skin from cracking. Also recommended are oils whose ingredients are similar to the natural oils of the skin. If a lotion contains coconut or shea butter, it is also suitable for preserving the skin’s natural moisture.

Each person concerned should find out for himself which cream is best tolerated and offers the greatest protection. In the case of particularly deep tears, a special “liquid film bandage” from the pharmacy can be used.In addition to keeping skin cracks moisturized, it protects the skin from external influences and prevents existing wounds from reopening. Creams or ointments containing alcohol should be avoided urgently.

When handling acidic, aggressive substances, rubber gloves are strongly recommended to protect the skin. People with very sensitive skin should also be careful when rinsing or handling detergents and wear gloves as a preventive measure against dry skin. When washing hands, a soap containing herbs or olive oil can protect the hands better than an ordinary soap from the drugstore.

In addition, you should avoid too hot water, as it reduces your own skin moisture. Lukewarm or cool water is recommended. Washing your hands too often is also a risk factor for cracked fingertips.

In winter, wearing warming gloves in the cold air is an important measure to protect against dry, chapped skin. However, a certain level of humidity should also be maintained inside living rooms in winter, as excessively dry heating air also promotes the development of sensitive skin areas.