Worried ’bout that cracked skin? No need to fret! This article will tell you what the main causes of it are, plus the best ways to treat it. Get ready to soothe your skin back to its healthy state!
Introduction
Cracked skin can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful. It appears as deep fissures or splits in the skin. Areas like hands, feet, lips, eyelids, and other body parts are affected. Causes vary. But, there are treatments for managing and healing cracked skin.
This article gives an overview of different types of cracked skin, their causes, and treatments. Additionally, preventive methods are discussed to help minimize risk of developing cracks in your skin. Get a better understanding of this problem and its potential solutions. This will help minimize your discomfort and improve your skin health.
What are the Causes of Cracked Skin?
Cracked skin, also called fissures or splits, can be an uncomfortable and troubling condition. It is usually due to dryness, but it can be from an illness. It is important to find out the cause and treat it correctly. Here are the most common reasons for cracked skin:
- No Moisture: Cold weather and low humidity can make the natural oils in the skin decrease. This will make the top layer of the skin rough and it will crack apart.
- Eczema & Psoriasis: Eczema and psoriasis cause inflammation which stops the body from keeping the skin hydrated. This leads to sensitive and dry patches that crack when put under pressure.
- Allergies: Contact dermatitis is an allergy which causes a rash with fluid filled bumps, yellowing skin and irritated red patches. The skin may flake and become dry and crack when exposed to heat, cold and other irritants like soap, pollen and animal dander.
- Infections & Worms: Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm can cause scaling and burning. This can lead to cracking if not treated in time. Hookworms can also penetrate the soles of your feet, leading to dry skin that cracks.
- Hormones: Hormone imbalances can reduce the body’s ability to produce enough oil. This makes your outer layers more likely to be damaged, leading to deep cracking anywhere on the body.
What are the Symptoms of Cracked Skin?
Cracked skin is a condition where the outer layers of the skin split. It typically happens when the stratum corneum, the protective outer layer of skin, is weakened or hurt. Symptoms can differ based on the seriousness of cracks and other issues such as dryness or infections.
Common signs include:
- Scaly patches on the skin
- Tightness & discomfort in affected areas
- Dryness & ashen-colored patches on light skin tones
- Inflammation & redness in affected areas
- Itching & burning feelings around affected areas
- Possibly fluid oozing around cracks or cuts
In more extreme cases, pain may occur when stretching or bending. Other signs non-specific to cracked skin could be chapped lips due to dehydration or extreme weather circumstances.
In some cases, further signs may be present with secondary infections such as:
- Feverish responses which could suggest a bacterial infection
- Discolored spots under an area
- Pus in more serious cases
- Increased feeling of heat in the region plus redness & swelling
- Crusting over an infected area
- Pain from movement near wounded area (if caused by injury)
- Neck stiffness if infected area is near spine or head (rare)
What are the Risk Factors for Cracked Skin?
Cracked skin, also known as fissures or excoriations, can cause discomfort and pain. It can be caused by regular wear and tear, but there are risk factors too. Diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, and fungal infections can all lead to skin cracking. Seasonal changes such as heat or cold, long hot baths/showers, and physical activity can also cause it.
To heal it quickly, avoid further irritation with gentle soaps without harsh ingredients, protect the area from extreme temperatures, and moisturize regularly with hypoallergenic creams or ointments containing petrolatum jelly or aloe vera oils.
How is Cracked Skin Diagnosed?
Cracked skin diagnosis starts with a physical exam and overview of the patient’s health history. The doc will take a look at the skin and search for signs of dryness, eczema, wounds, or infection. The doc will ask questions about the patient’s lifestyle, like if they spend lots of time outside, in swimming pools, or in dry climates.
In some cases, more tests are needed to find out the cause of cracked skin. For example, if diabetes is a possibility, the doc might order tests to measure blood sugar levels and other factors linked to diabetes. In some cases, a laboratory test on skin cells taken from the affected area may be needed too.
Once the doc has all the info and test results, they can make an accurate diagnosis and give treatment for cracked skin.
What are the Best Ways to Treat Cracked Skin?
Cracked skin is a common issue affecting feet, hands and lips. Causes vary, but can include dry air in winter, exposure to irritants, allergens or excessive heat. Skin damage from sunburns, harsh materials or rubbing on clothes can also be a factor. Taking care of the skin is key for treatment.
Hydration is the most effective treatment. Moisturize skin with creams that provide intense moisture and hydration. Petroleum jelly works for severe cases, while coconut oil is more suitable for lighter cases. Avoid lotions and products with fragrances and dyes as these can further dry out skin and worsen cracking.
- Keep the environment moist with a humidifier and drink plenty of water (8 glasses a day).
- Protect exposed parts from cold weather with protective clothing, like gloves and socks.
- If in extreme temperatures for a long time, reapply lotions and barrier creams every few hours, so skin receives proper nourishment until able to warm indoors.
Prevention of Cracked Skin
To prevent cracked skin, it’s easier than treating it once it’s already formed. People who are prone to dry, cracked skin should protect it from environmental stressors. Wear sunscreen, moisturize, and avoid hot showers and harsh skin cleansers. Lukewarm water can reduce skin irritation and keep oils intact.
Non-soap, fragrance and alcohol-free cleansers are best. Products with petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil or beeswax are good choices for moisturizers/body wash. Aloe vera, coconut oil and other plant-based ingredients can help preserve moisture in skin. Regular exfoliation with chemical or physical scrubs can remove dead cells.
Watch out for material sensitivities too, such as wool or synthetic fabrics, as these can cause irritations and dryness. Finally, tweak lifestyle habits and avoid triggers to keep risks of damaged skin at bay!
Conclusion
In summary, cracked skin has a range of causes. The best treatment depends on the cause. To prevent and keep skin healthy, regularly moisturize, eat balanced meals and avoid harsh cleansers. If non-surgical treatments don’t help, think about laser resurfacing or dermabrasion. If you have an ongoing issue with dryness or cracking, consult a dermatologist. They’ll evaluate your condition and come up with a plan that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the most common causes of cracked skin?
A1: The most common causes of cracked skin are dryness, exposure to harsh elements, skin conditions such as eczema, and vitamin deficiencies.
Q2: What are the best ways to treat cracked skin?
A2: The best ways to treat cracked skin are to use a moisturizer regularly, wear gloves when working outside, apply petroleum jelly, and take a supplement or eat foods rich in vitamins A and E.
Q3: What are skin fissures?
A3: Skin fissures are deep cracks in the skin that can be painful and may even bleed. They can occur anywhere on the body, but tend to be most common on the hands and feet.
