I am 23. Why are my dry fingertips not improving?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 23-year-old female who has developed dry fingertips. The skin flakes off to leave smooth, raw skin that has pins and needles when touched. It started with the index finger of my left hand. I asked a pharmacist for an opinion, and he thought it was nerve damage and recommended steroid cream.

Over the last six months, it has spread to the fingers of both hands. During this period, I also developed an itchy rash on the inside of my elbows. When I went to the doctor, she said it was eczema and prescribed me Dermol, Doublebase cream, and steroid cream.

My fingers have not improved over the past month, but my arms have. Could you please give me your opinion on the supposed eczema on my fingertips? I am not convinced about what it is.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

From your history and clinical images (attachment removed to protect patient identity), it appears that you are suffering from fingertip eczema.

It could most commonly occur as a consequence of allergic contact dermatitis to soaps and detergents used for washing clothes and dishes, application of hair dye, gardening activities, and repeated wet work. The treatment prescribed by your doctor does not work effectively unless you curb these inciting risk factors.

You should continue the same treatment as previously advised. To help prevent the condition from worsening, avoid excessive wet work and direct contact with soaps and detergents, as they can irritate the skin.

Do not apply hair dye directly to the scalp, and try to reduce gardening activities if possible, since soil and plant exposure may trigger irritation.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you, and take care.

Regards.