How is cracked skin treated?

Fissures form when the outer skin barrier becomes dry, thickened, inflamed, or repeatedly exposed to water, detergents, cold air, or friction. Cracked heels often need softening and protection from pressure. Hand eczema can affect the fingers and palms, while atopic dermatitis or psoriasis may cause persistent scaling and splits elsewhere.

A clinician may recommend a thick moisturising ointment, a protective dressing, or prescription treatment for inflammation. The best choice depends on the site, depth, bleeding, itch, and suspected cause.

Apply an emollient soon after washing and reapply whenever the skin feels tight. Use lukewarm water, a gentle cleanser, and gloves that keep irritating substances away from the hands. For feet, well-fitting shoes and soft socks reduce rubbing. Do not pull loose skin or file a painful fissure; protect it with a clean dressing and keep the area from reopening.

Seek medical advice when cracks are deep, repeatedly bleeding, very painful, or not improving with careful moisturising. Prompt assessment is needed for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or difficulty using a hand or walking. Cracking with a new widespread rash or significant inflammation may require treatment beyond moisturiser.

Ask which emollient texture suits the area, how often to apply it, and whether a barrier dressing is appropriate. Ask whether your pattern fits hand eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, or cracked heels, and which warning signs should bring you back.