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Definition
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Skin is cracked (especially hands, feet and lips) OR
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Dry, rough skin (usually of entire body surface)
Causes
of Cracks in the Skin
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Most cracked skin is found on the feet, hands or lips.
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Feet: The soles of the feet are most commonly involved, especially on the heels and big toes (called tennis shoe dermatitis). Deep cracks are very painful and periodically bleed. The main cause is frequently wearing wet or sweaty socks or swimming a lot.
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Hands: Cracks can develop on the hands in children who frequently wash their hands or wash dishes. Can also occur from working outside in winter weather. The worse cracks of the fingers occur with thumbsucking.
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Lips: The lips can become chapped in children from excessive exposure to sun or wind. If the lips become cracked, it's usually from a "lip-licking" habit. The skin around the lips can also become pink and dry if the child sucks on the lips.
Causes of Dry Skin
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Dry skin is a common condition.
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Mainly caused by too much bathing and soap (soap dermatitis)
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Soap removes the skin’s natural protective oils and once they are gone, the skin can’t hold moisture.
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Dry climates make it worse, as does winter weather (called winter itch)
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Genetics also plays a role in dry skin.
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Dry skin is less common in teenagers than younger children, because the oil glands are more active.
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Dry, rough, bumpy skin on the back of the upper arms is called keratosis pilaris. It’s made worse by soaps. Treated with moisturizing creams.
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Dry pale spots on the face are called pityriasis alba. These are more prevalent in the winter time and are also made worse by soaps. Treated with moisturizing creams.
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Eczema:
Children with eczema have very dry itchy skin.
Liquid Crack Sealer For Deep, Chronic Cracks
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Liquid plastic skin bandage is a new product that seals wounds with a plastic coating that lasts up to 1 week.
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It is the best way to relieve pain and promote healing. As the crack heals from the bottom upward, it pushes the plastic seal out of the way.
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After the wound is washed and dried, the liquid is applied with a small brush or with a swab. It dries in less than a minute. Then apply a second coat. It's resistant to bathing and may last a week.
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Example: Nexcare Skin Crack Care by 3M
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Available without a prescription at your local pharmacy.
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If not, see these topics
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