Dry, cracking skin around your nails is very common and usually caused by frequent handwashing, cold weather, or harsh soaps. To treat this, regularly apply a thick moisturising cream or ointment containing ingredients like glycerin, urea, or petroleum jelly, especially after washing your hands. If the area is inflamed, red, or itchy, a mild over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (1%) can help soothe the irritation. If the cracks are deep and painful, applying a generic topical antibiotic ointment like bacitracin can prevent infection. Try to wear gloves when doing household chores and avoid picking at the skin.
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