Buzz
During winter, cracked knuckles are a frequent issue. VisualCommunications/Getty ImagesWinter brings not only snow and cold but also dry, harsh air. For most people, this means their skin becomes drier, requiring more moisturizer than usual. Common issues include chapped lips, windburn, and unruly hair. Additionally, many experience cracked and bleeding knuckles. While hands remain unaffected in other seasons, winter causes the knuckles to dry out and split. Unless you have a condition like psoriasis or eczema, this phenomenon might seem puzzling. It’s both painful and frustrating, but there’s a logical explanation behind it.
In winter, the cold, dry air depletes the skin’s natural moisture. Indoors, low humidity and central heating further reduce the moisture in the air, leaving skin parched. As the skin dries, it flakes, breaking down the natural barrier that retains moisture. This often leads to itching, a common winter complaint. Restoring the skin’s moisture barrier is crucial, and using heavier moisturizers with ingredients like petroleum and glycerin is essential during this season.
Why do your knuckles suffer so much (pun intended)? The reason is straightforward. Your hands are exposed to water more frequently than any other part of your body. Consider how often you wash your hands daily. This number can skyrocket if your job involves frequent handwashing or wet hands, such as in professions like healthcare or hairdressing.
Although it may seem counterintuitive, excessive water exposure dehydrates your hands. Soap further strips away your skin’s natural oils, worsening dryness. Additionally, the constant movement of your knuckles—bending and straightening—hinders their ability to heal. Below are some tips to keep your knuckles moisturized or help them recover if they’re already cracked:
- Soak your hands in warm milk, which has natural moisturizing properties.
- Apply petroleum jelly to your knuckles and hands, cover them with plastic bags, and leave for 15 minutes. Massage any leftover jelly into your skin.
- Before bed, use a lotion with glycerin and petroleum, and wear cotton gloves overnight.
- Always apply hand cream after washing your hands.
The key takeaway is to use petroleum-based products. While they may feel greasy, they are among the most effective solutions for restoring moisture to damaged skin.
