Lichen planus on the fingers

Finger lesions may occur on the backs or sides of the fingers and can become irritated by washing, friction or repeated contact with products. Affected skin may thicken, crack or leave darker or lighter marks after inflammation settles. When the nail unit is involved, ridges, thinning, splitting or altered growth can develop. A single damaged nail has many possible explanations, including injury or infection, so the pattern needs a clinician's review.

Use a fragrance-free moisturiser after washing and wear protective gloves for wet work or contact with cleaning products. Avoid picking, filing or cutting irritated skin around the nails. A dermatologist may prescribe a topical corticosteroid for inflamed areas; treatment around nails must follow precise instructions because the skin is delicate and the cause of a nail change may be uncertain. Photographing changes can help show whether new areas are appearing.

Book an appointment for persistent finger bumps, painful cracks, spreading inflammation or a nail that changes without a clear injury. Seek prompt care if redness, swelling, warmth, pus or rapidly increasing pain suggests infection, or if hand symptoms interfere with movement, sleep or daily tasks.

Ask whether the nails are involved, whether a skin or nail sample would clarify the diagnosis, which products should be avoided, and how long to use any prescribed treatment. Mention hand washing, occupational exposures, new products, mouth symptoms and lesions elsewhere on the body.