Peeling skin around the fingertips is a very common problem and can cause a lot of discomfort and can be embarrassing, too.Infections such as some types of staph infections, vitamin deficiencies , fungal infections and some other conditions may also contribute to this problem.
There are several reasons behind this skin problem. Some of the known causes are frequent washing of hands ,sunburn,dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, cold and dry weather, use of harsh chemicals, and allergies.
Peeling fingertips is usually a temporary problem and will heal in a few days when new skin is generated. However, if peeling fingertips is causing a problem for you, there are some natural treatments that you can try at home to speed up the healing process.
Here are the 8 ways to get rid of peeling fingertips.
1. Cucumber
Cucumber can also be used to treat peeling fingertips. It will help keep your skin smooth , moisturized and fresh.
Cut a fresh cucumber into thick slices. Gently rub the slices on the affected skin so that the juice absorbs well into the skin.You can also apply grated cucumber over the affected skin for about 30 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat daily until you are satisfied with the results.
2. Warm Water Soak
Soak your hands in warm water for about 10 minutes every day to deal with peeling fingertips. There are two benefits of this simple remedy. First, the skin around your fingertips will become supple, and secondly, the dry skin will start falling off.
For best results, add some honey and lemon juice to the warm water before soaking your hands in it. After soaking, pat dry your hands and put on some good-quality moisturizer, or simply vitamin E oil. You can also apply some olive oil to maintain the moisture level of your hands.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an excellent home remedy for many skin problems including peeling skin. It moisturizes your skin and keeps it soft and supple.
Simply apply coconut oil generously on your peeling fingertips several times a day. For best results, leave it on overnight and wash it off the next morning.
It contains medium chain fatty acids that allow it to penetrate quickly into the skin.
It combat dryness, itching and flaking.
Its antifungal and antibacterial properties protect against infections
4. Milk
Milk is a luxurious treatment for peeling fingertips
As milk is a natural skin moisturizer, you can also apply milk on the affected skin. For this remedy, use milk with higher fat content.
Mix two tablespoons of milk and one tablespoon of honey. Apply this mixture on the skin and massage gently. This will help the skin hold in moisture.
Another option is to soak your fingers in warm milk for 10 minutes daily and then wash it off with water. Follow up with a moisturizer or just vitamin E oil.
5. Aloe Vera
A simple remedy for treating peeling fingertips is to use pure aloe vera gel. Aloe vera has cooling and soothing properties that will help treat dry, painful or irritating peeling fingertips. It will also lock in moisture and protect the skin from different types of infection.
Extract the succulent gel from an aloe vera leaf and apply it on the affected skin a few times a day.
You can also drink two tablespoons of aloe vera juice daily.
6. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a great moisturizer for dry skin. Soaking your fingers in warm olive oil will deeply moisturize and nourish your skin. Being rich in vitamin E, it will also promote skin healing.
Slightly heat one-half cup of extra-virgin olive oil in a microwave or double boiler.
Pour the warm oil in a bowl and add three drops of lavender essential oil.
Soak your dry fingertips in the warm oil for 10 minutes.
Gently rinse your hands with lukewarm water, pat dry and then apply some moisturizer.
7. Honey
Honey has healing and moisturizing properties that can help soothe and protect peeling fingertips. Being a natural antibacterial, it will also prevent infection.
Rub a small amount of pure honey on the affected skin. Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water.Another option is to prepare a mixture of honey and olive oil and apply it on to the skin daily in order to keep it soft and supple.
You can also make a mixture of two tablespoons of sandalwood powder, two or three teaspoons of rosewater and some honey and apply it on the affected area. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with warm water and a mild soap.
8. Banana
Banana pulp can also be used to help heal peeling fingertips as it is another great ingredient for moisturizing the skin. You can combine it with sour cream, sugar and olive oil to help your skin heal faster.
Mix together the pulp of a ripe banana, some sour cream, a pinch of powdered sugar and one tablespoon of olive oil. (Instead of banana, you can also use the pulp of a ripe avocado.)
Apply this mixture on the affected skin for at least 30 minutes.
Wash and pat dry your hands thoroughly and apply some moisturizer.
Do this daily for a few days.
NOTE
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
Protect your hands by wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves when washing dishes or doing other chores that expose your hands to harsh chemicals.
Do not wash your hands too often.
Include more vitamin A, C, and E rich foods in your diet; dry, rough skin is often a sign of vitamin A deficiency.
Moisturize your peeling skin with a moisturizer, hand lotion, or just vitamin E oil after every wash.
These remedies will help treat a temporary problem of peeling skin on your fingertips but if the problem is severe it is best to consult a doctor.