How can I heal the cracks in my palms? (photo)

Question

The palms of my hands have cracks in them that never healed, I picked at them a lot over time too so it never healed. My palms are very rough and have a sand-papery like texture which I think could be atopic dermatitis from overwashing the hands or a very mild Palmoplantar Keratoderma condition.

Ryan Welter, MD · Answer

To heal the cracks in your palms, it’s essential to address the cause, especially if **overwashing** is a factor. Constant washing and the use of sanitizers strip natural oils from your skin, much like soap does to leather, leaving it dry, cracked, and rough.

Here’s a routine to help restore your skin’s natural barrier:

1. **Limit Washing:** Wash only when your hands are visibly dirty, rather than out of habit. In between, consider using a moisturizer rather than soap to keep skin hydrated.

2. **Soak and Moisturize:** Occasionally soak your hands in warm water until your skin feels slightly wrinkled; this shows it’s absorbed moisture. Afterward, apply a thick moisturizer like **Eucerin** or **Vaseline** to seal it in.

3. **Address Cracks with Care:** If any cracks look red or inflamed, a mild **antifungal cream** can help in case of fungal buildup in those areas, but only apply occasionally as needed.

4. **Be Consistent and Gentle:** Avoid harsh hand sanitizers and soaps for now. Allowing your hands to naturally rehydrate and applying a barrier cream will go a long way in healing the roughness and cracks over time.

How can I heal the cracks in my palms? (photo)

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How can I heal the cracks in my palms? (photo)

Answers (1)

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Everything you need to know about Hand Rejuvenation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.