I’m sorry—that’s painful, and cold weather can make it much worse. While this isn’t a substitute for seeing a doctor, there are safe things you can do right now to protect your fingertips and help them heal.
What you can do today
1. Seal in moisture (this is the most important step)
- Use a thick ointment, not a lotion. Best options:
- Petroleum jelly (like Vaseline)
- Aquaphor or similar healing ointments
- Apply a thick layer before bed and after every hand wash.
2. Cover the cracks
- If the skin is split open, gently clean it with water, dry it, then:
- Apply ointment
- Cover with a bandage or liquid bandage to protect it while it heals
- This reduces pain and prevents infection.
3. Night repair
- Before sleeping:
- Apply a heavy layer of ointment
- Wear cotton gloves or clean socks over your hands overnight
This can make a big difference in just a few nights.
4. Protect from cold and water
- Wear gloves outside, even for short trips.
- When washing dishes or cleaning, use waterproof gloves.
- Avoid very hot water—it dries skin even more.
5. Be gentle with soap
- Use a mild, fragrance-free soap.
- Don’t scrub cracked areas.
What to avoid
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizers on open cracks (they sting and delay healing)
- Picking at the splits
- Scented lotions (they can irritate broken skin)
When you should get medical help (when you can)
Try to see a doctor or nurse sooner if you notice:
- Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or pus
- Cracks that won’t heal after 1–2 weeks of care
- Severe pain or bleeding
- Signs of infection or if this keeps happening every winter (could be eczema or dermatitis)
If you want, tell me:
- How deep the splits are
- Whether they bleed or itch
- What products you already have at home
I can help you adjust this plan to what you have right now.
