Skin peeling around the fingers near the nails may result from numerous factors such as dehydration, exposure to abrasive chemicals, frequent hand cleansing, or specific skin ailments like eczema or psoriasis.
Why is the skin surrounding my nails peeling?
The skin surrounding your nails may peel for several reasons, including:
Dehydration: Dry skin is one of the most prevalent causes of peeling around the nails. Factors such as cold climates, low humidity, frequent hand cleansing, and exposure to abrasive chemicals can deplete the skin of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and peeling.
Excessive Moisture: While dehydration may induce peeling, excessive moisture or prolonged exposure to water can also compromise the skin around the nails, rendering it more susceptible to peeling. This frequently occurs in individuals who regularly wash their hands or engage in activities involving water without providing protection for their skin.
Chemical Irritants: Exposure to harsh chemicals present in household cleaning products, detergents, or nail polish removers can irritate the skin surrounding the nails, leading to peeling and inflammation.
Nail Biting or Picking: Behaviors such as nail biting or picking at the skin surrounding the nails can injure the skin, resulting in peeling and inflammation.
Skin Conditions: Certain skin ailments such as eczema, psoriasis, or fungal infections may impact the skin surrounding the nails, manifesting symptoms like peeling, redness, and inflammation.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals might experience allergic reactions to certain ingredients in skincare products, nail polish, or artificial nails, resulting in peeling and irritation.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficient intake of essential nutrients, notably vitamins A, C, and E, alongside biotin and omega-3 fatty acids, can influence the health of your skin, including the skin surrounding your nails, resulting in dryness and peeling.
Trauma or Injury: Damage to the skin around the nails, such as excessive manicuring, aggressive nail filing, or injuries, can harm the skin and lead to peeling.
How can you remedy peeling skin around your nails?
Here are several suggestions to assist in preventing and addressing skin peeling in this region:
Moisturize Consistently
Apply a hydrating cream or lotion to your hands multiple times throughout the day, particularly after handwashing. Seek products containing components such as glycerin, shea butter, or coconut oil.
Safeguard Your Hands
Utilize gloves while undertaking household tasks or working with abrasive chemicals to shield your hands from dehydration and irritation.
Avoid Abrasive Soaps: Employ gentle, fragrance-free soaps when cleansing your hands. Harsh soaps can strip away natural oils from your skin, resulting in dryness and peeling.
Limit Hand Cleansing
While maintaining proper hand hygiene is crucial, excessive hand washing can lead to skin dehydration and peeling. Wash your hands when necessary, such as prior to eating or after using the restroom, but endeavor to avoid excessive washing.
Utilize a Cuticle Oil
Apply cuticle oil to the dermis surrounding your nails to maintain hydration and avert peeling. You may utilize commercial cuticle oils or natural oils such as coconut oil or vitamin E oil.
Avoid Nail Biting and Picking
These behaviors can harm the skin around your nails and contribute to peeling. Endeavor to eliminate these habits to encourage healthier skin.
Stay Hydrated
Consume ample water to ensure your skin is hydrated from within.
Protect Your Hands in Cold Weather
Cold temperatures can intensify dry skin. Don gloves when outside in chilly conditions to shield your hands from the elements.
Consider a Humidifier
Employing a humidifier in your residence or workplace can introduce moisture into the air, which can assist in preventing dryness and peeling of the skin.
Consult a Dermatologist
If your skin peeling is severe or continues despite home remedies, consider consulting a dermatologist. They can help identify the underlying cause and suggest suitable treatment, which may include prescription creams or ointments.