Painful cracks on thumbs

morethan2,my GP has told me that aqueous cream is no longer recommended for dry skin conditions as it can actually make the situation worse.You can check this out on the internet to verify and then perhaps you could suggest that your poor MIL stops using that and tries one of the other ideas posted on here.

I used to use Snofire or the thicker Germolene but you can't get either of them now. When I had a hack on my thumb a couple of weeks ago I kept it sealed with Savlon antiseptic Sprayon Plaster. It nipped a little when I first put it on but after that the hack cleared up in a couple of days and wasn't as painful as usual because it was protected.

I'm sure Granny always used something called Melrose for cracks in her fingers. It must be quite an old remedy but I'm sure it was in a pink stick that you twist (like prittstick) It always did the trick.

oznan cheers

Udder cream really works, farmers use it. Get it on the internet, several different brands - not expensive.

Hello AnneGran. Almost the same name as me!

Hello AnnieGran. Nice to meet you! ?

I received my order of "Bag Balm" from Amazon this morning (beware of paying the same for one ounce as 8 ounces) I put some on my nose and lips which were sore from having a cold and its very good. Good value too.

My Bag Balm came at the weekend. I knew there was no way I would ever use 8oz (I thought of a block of butter), so I ordered the 1oz although it cost the same. I wonder why? My little tin is so sweet! The balm feels like good stuff.

I'm gonna use it on my feet, legs and all ;sorts of places as I am a dry old Bird. So I'm glad I bought the eight ounce one!

I would say increase vitamin c intake, recommend Neutragena hand cream, it is excellent, keep them out of water as much as possible. Hope it gets better soon, know how painful it is.

We eat quite a bit of vitamin C, but Not careful about using handcream. My hands are in and out of water so often, apart from dishes and washing clothes. I wash hands every time I have anything to do with the hens, or our pet's food etc.
The crack has nearly healed now, they semm to take their own time.

Snowfire is still available to buy. I saw it yesterday in my local pharmacy.

We ordered Bag Bakm and within 3 days my husband's thumbs are healing. Magic! Thanks for the suggestions everyone - looks like you have solved the problem he's had for years.

Bag Balm!