I have a lot of lines in my palms and my hands are very dry despite using moisturizers. How can I fix this? (Photo)

Question

feminine 21 Dry 155 55

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photo.

What you're experiencing—increased dryness of the palms with pronounced lines or creases—is fairly common and can be caused or worsened by several factors:

Possible Causes:
Chronic Dryness (Xerosis): Even if you’re using moisturizers, they may not be rich enough or applied frequently enough to repair the skin barrier.

Frequent Hand Washing or Sanitizer Use: Alcohol-based sanitizers and soaps strip natural oils from the skin.

Genetic Skin Texture: Some individuals naturally have more prominent palmar lines regardless of moisture levels.

Environmental Exposure: Dry climates, air conditioning, or exposure to detergents and chemicals can worsen dryness.

Underlying Skin Conditions: Early eczema or contact dermatitis can present as dryness and accentuated skin markings.

What You Can Do:
✅ Upgrade Your Moisturizer
Use a thicker, ointment-based product like petrolatum (Vaseline) or CeraVe Healing Ointment instead of just lotion.

Apply right after washing your hands to lock in moisture.

✅ Use Gloves
Wear cotton gloves overnight after applying a thick layer of moisturizer.

During chores, especially with cleaning agents, wear rubber gloves to avoid irritants.

✅ Avoid Harsh Soaps
Choose fragrance-free, gentle cleansers like Cetaphil or Vanicream.

Avoid antibacterial or alcohol-heavy hand products when possible.

✅ Try Urea or Lactic Acid-Based Creams
These help exfoliate and hydrate dry, thickened skin. Examples: Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream or AmLactin.

✅ Consider a Hydrocortisone Cream (1%)
If there's redness, irritation, or itching, a mild steroid cream (short-term use only) can help reduce inflammation and repair the barrier.

Final Thoughts:
The appearance of deep lines alone is not dangerous but is often a reflection of underlying dryness or barrier disruption. With consistent care, hydration, and protective habits, you should see improvement in both texture and comfort.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. Dealing with dry hands and lines can be frustrating, especially when moisturizers don’t seem to provide relief. To improve the condition of your palms, consider incorporating a few additional strategies. First, try using thicker, occlusive creams or ointments, such as those containing ingredients like shea butter or petroleum jelly, which can create a barrier to lock in moisture. Applying these products right before bed and wearing cotton gloves overnight can help enhance absorption. Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You might also benefit from gentle exfoliation using a hand scrub to remove dead skin cells, followed by a moisturizer to replenish hydration. If your hands are frequently exposed to water or harsh chemicals, consider wearing gloves during cleaning or dishwashing. I hope this helps and best of luck!

I have a lot of lines in my palms and my hands are very dry despite using moisturizers. How can I fix this? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Hand Rejuvenation

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I have a lot of lines in my palms and my hands are very dry despite using moisturizers. How can I fix this? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Hand Rejuvenation

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