Why Do Hands and Feet Peel?

Many people experience easy peeling of their hands and feet, along with symptoms such as itching and small blisters. In severe cases, the delicate flesh may be exposed, leading to bleeding. These issues are typically caused by excessive moisture, long-term exposure to chemicals, fungal infections, and dry dermatitis. Here are some common reasons:

Hands that are constantly damp do not have a dry and comfortable environment, leading to skin peeling. This is due to extended periods of immersion in water or persistent dampness, which can cause the skin to wrinkle and lose its elasticity, ultimately leading to peeling. Additionally, excessive internal dampness can also contribute to this condition. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid prolonged immersion of hands in water and actively remove excess dampness from the body to prevent hand peeling.

Some individuals working in specific professions may frequently be exposed to highly irritating chemicals. This not only can cause skin allergies and peeling on the hands but also can irritate the lungs if inhaled for extended periods. It is advisable to wear masks and gloves at work to avoid allergies. For symptoms such as dryness and pain on the hands, applying moisturizing creams or ointments like tretinoin cream or urea cream can help relieve discomfort. Oral administration of cod liver oil and multiple vitamins can also be beneficial.

Fungal infections can easily occur due to excessive sweating on the feet, wearing closed and non-breathable shoes, not changing socks for several days, not washing feet regularly, or going barefoot at home. Proper care and hygiene are crucial in preventing these infections. Common topical antifungal medications include terbinafine, bifonazole, and amorolfine, which should be used as prescribed by a doctor.

Dry dermatitis often occurs during the early autumn season due to the dry weather. It is most commonly seen in young and middle-aged women who tend to wash their hands frequently with soap. Therefore, it is recommended to reduce the frequency of handwashing, avoid using alkaline soaps and hand sanitizers, and wear gloves when washing clothes.