Most people at some point of time have to confront the problem of how to get rid of peeling fingertips. Peeling fingertips can be quite an annoyance if not catered for in the initial stages. The body continually sheds off dead cells of the skin in form of peeling but certain environmental and internal factors may lead to excessive peeling which then becomes a problem. The normal cycle of the epidermis replacement is approximately 28 days which means that the entire skin is shed off completely in period through continual peeling. The criticality is caused by a situation when the rate of peeling exceeds the rate of replacement. Dryness, itching, burning sensation and even pain to some extent are common symptoms of this condition of peeling fingertips.
In order to get rid of peeling fingertips effectively, the exact cause for this manifestation of the skin has to be diagnosed accurately. A few common preventive methods are also recommended to ensure that such a situation does not arise in the first place.
Common Causes of Peeling Fingertips
Dermatologists across the world have identified a few common factors that lead to peeling fingertips in most people. There may be certain other specific body disorders or hormonal imbalances that cause the peeling. Discussed in the following paragraphs are some of more frequently encountered factors that lead to peeling finger tips.
Finger Sucking:
While sucking of fingers is a self soothing activity seen among infants, there are a few individuals who continue this habit till quite late in life. In this condition the portion of the finger from top downwards that remains inside the mouth tends to peel off due to excessive exposure to moisture.
Allergen:
There are some allergens which stimulate rapid shedding off the surface cells of type skin at the fingertips. The severity of the condition depends upon individual reaction to that allergen. Latex from rubber gloves and nickel from jewellery are the primary culprits in most cases.
Solvents:
Certain commercial detergents and other daily use solvents have higher content of strong and reactive chemicals which may cause peeling of the skin on which they contact with.
Eczema of Fingers:
A chronic condition of the skin, eczema if affecting the fingers may induce peeling of the fingertips. This condition is indicated by itching, rashes, red and scaly skin and ultimately leading to peeling of the fingertips.
Keratosis Pilaris:
This is a more hereditary linked genetic condition that affects a large segment of the population in varying degrees of severity. The skin of the fingers tends to become course and rough and a constant itch remains. In severe cases peeling commences from the tips and spreads downwards on the fingers. Excessive tanning in the sun, Laser treatment and deficiency of certain vitamins aggravates this condition.
How to get Rid of Peeling Fingertips Naturally
A few easy to follow precautions and practices can help you to effectively get rid of peeling fingertips on a permanent basis. Since harsh chemicals are one of the most common causes of such peeling of the skin, commercial products that are available over the counter should be preferably be avoided as there is a chance of aggravating the condition in case your skin type reacts adversely to that formulation.
Moisturizing:
Maintaining the right levels on the fingertips is the key to avoiding rough skin that may peel off. There are several natural moisturizers available at homes which can be employed for this purpose. Peeled and grated cucumber, fresh mint extract and a mixture of honey turmeric and olive oil which can be easily found in every kitchen are some ideal moisturizers to be used for this purpose. A combination of pulp of banana or avocado with sour cream, powdered sugar and few drops of olive oil is also recommended for this purpose. It must be remembered that these mixtures must be kept applied on the affected skin for at least a period of 20 minutes and the washed off and dried. Soaking the fingers in powdered oatmeal in lukewarm water for a minimum of 15 minutes prior to going to bed every day is yet another effective means of avoiding peeling of fingertips.
Cut off the Bigger Pieces:
This is a practical tip that helps avoid discomfort and arising out of peeled skin of the fingertips getting tangled in clothes while changing. Additionally it also prevents the peeling from extending further. Such cutting must always be done with a sterilized pair of scissors. Sterilizing can be done by washing the scissor blades with alcohol prior to using the, Cuticles scissors are ideal for the purpose. One must keep in mind to undertake such cutting sparingly and remove only the large pieces of skin that are distinctly jutting out on the fingertips and avoid touching the smaller peels.
Desist from Picking:
In conditions that are caused any infection or psoriasis of any kind picking at the peels on the fingertips can actually aggravate the condition. Even in case of allergies or Keratosis Pilaris picking must be strictly avoided. Removing skin forcefully tend to expose the tender underneath various infections which will make it worse to handle subsequently. There are several lotions available which reduce the itching and urge to pick at peeling skin. Any such formulation must be used only in consultation with your dermatologist to avoid adverse reaction on the affected skin area.
Regular Drying off the Affected Portion:
Use a cotton ball to rinse off any water from the peeling fingertips after contact with water. This is more applicable for women who do household chores such as cleaning floors, washing dishes or clothes. Effective rinsing ensures that there no microbial infections in cracks and pores of the affected fingertips. In case the peeling has given way to cracked skin at the fingertips applying antiseptic powder is also recommended by dermatologists to get rid of peeling fingertips at the earliest.
Medicines:
There are various lotions and formulations which can be used after consultation with dermatologists for preventing peeling of fingertips caused by sunburn after prolonged exposure to strong sun rays. Even wearing of gloves in winters after applying moisturizers has been found to be effective in getting rid of peeling fingertips.
Professional Help:
In case the condition is aggravated due to unavoidable reasons and the skin at the fingertips starts to burn and turn painful, then it is time to stop home remedies and consult a certified dermatologist at the earliest to commence medical treatment. The situation can be best handled if remedial treatment is initiated at the early stages.
Peeling fingertips presents an ugly and unhygienic picture which at times can be highly embarrassing at public gatherings. Dealing with this problem effectively requires preventive measures and timely treatment either with home remedies or with professional diagnosis. Watch out for redness, rashes, and irritation, itching or pricking sensation on the fingertips and if any of these is noticed commence the treatment at the earliest. Maintaining the right moisture level is most essential in such situations as both inadequate as well as excess moisture can lead to peeling of skin at the fingertips. Chemical reaction of over the counter products must be checked by limited application before undertaking regular usage over a larger area. Fingertips are an elegant part of the body that are exposed most of the times to public view at parties and gatherings and therefore deserve extra attention to maintain their beauty.
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