 | Laura Oman
is the Director of Education at Xenon International School of Hair Design in Wichita. After working as a full-time cosmetologist for ten years, Laura joined Xenon Int'l, her alma mater, to begin her career as an instructor in educating cosmetology students. This has been her passion for the past five years. Fully licensed in Nevada and Arizona, and Kansas, Laura specialized in all areas of Cosmetology. Ms. Oman can be reached at Xenon International School of Hair Design, 3804 W. Douglas, or by calling (316) 943-5516. |
Beauty & Fashion
2004-04-01 14:39:00
My finger tips are splitting!
Question: I would like to know the answer to dry cracking and splitting at the ends of my fingers. They split and peel even under the nails. They also form calluses. It is very painful. Can you help?
ANSWER: Analyzing the root of the problem would be the first step to the solution of dry, cracking and splitting at the ends of the fingers. There are a number of things that can be considered. One should think about the occupation he or she does. Working with chemicals, is the first thing that comes to mind. The pH balanced of skin is 4.5-5.5 so when a liquid or substance that is higher in alkaline than that comes into contact with our skin, it will become more dry than normal. If one's occupation requires them to work outdoors, it is susceptible too all of the elements such as: the wind, cold and heat. Also, if the use of tools is required this can add to the irritation of the hands and fingers. Other occupations that require a lot of water contact or sanitation requirements as in hand washing are the medical, beauty and food/beverage industries.Poor health for one reason or another could also be the problem. Our hair, skin and nails are always a pure reflection of what is going on inside the body. Besides a healthy diet, plenty of water is essential to the health of our skin as the skin is not only the largest organ of the human body but is also the last organ that water gets to. If skin is not properly hydrated, it cannot go through its normal sloughing process, which in turn can cause calluses.In most of these cases, getting regular scheduled manicures (every two weeks) could be the cure-all. In the process, a nail technician or cosmetologist will not only treat dry cuticles or trim nails, but can also include a hand massage with a sloughing lotion. This can remove most of the rough skin. In some extreme cases, a pumice stone or powder may be used to start the process. After a finishing lotion is used, it is followed through with a paraffin treatment, which is a process where your hands are dipped into warm paraffin wax, which helps with sealing in moisture ultimately resulting in less cracking of the skin.In any event, a good lotion or cream should be used on a daily basis. Morning, noon and night is recommended. If you have your hands in excessive water, an application after each time may be required. And of course any time you are in extreme weather or using tools. Gloves should be used and would help with any callusing of the skin.
