Dry skin fissures: what to know

When skin loses moisture, it becomes less flexible. Bending, stretching and repeated washing can then open fine cracks, commonly on hands, fingertips, heels or around joints. Asteatotic Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis can all cause scaling and fissuring, so location and the surrounding rash matter. [Dry Skin](/symptoms/dry-skin/) gives context about dryness without assuming a single cause.

Clean gently with lukewarm water, pat dry and apply a thick fragrance-free ointment or cream. Reapply after washing; [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) describes barrier-supporting moisturising. Cover a small clean crack with a suitable dressing when friction is likely, and change it if wet or dirty. Wear gloves for chores, avoid picking scales and reduce contact with detergents or solvents. A clinician may prescribe treatment if inflammation is driving the fissures.

Seek prompt care when a fissure becomes increasingly painful, warm, swollen, red or produces pus, or when fever or red streaking develops. Arrange an appointment for deep, recurrent, numerous or slow-healing cracks, especially if they limit walking, gripping or sleep. Diabetes, poor circulation or immune problems make earlier assessment sensible.

What is weakening my skin barrier? Does the surrounding scale suggest eczema, Psoriasis or another condition? Should I use a dressing, prescription anti-inflammatory treatment or an infection treatment, and how can I prevent another split?