Are small and itching “blisters” on your fingers driving you mad?
If you see “blisters” on your fingers and they itch, these may not be the typical blisters that result from a burn.
“Itchy small blisters on the fingers are often simply a condition called dyshidrotic eczema, a form of dry or irritated skin,” says Dr. Joel Schlessinger, MD, board certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon with a private practice in Omaha, NE.
“It is important not to pick at them or open them up, as that can result in more issues and prolonged irritation,” says Dr. Schlessinger.
“Instead, try to moisturize them or use a topical steroid if available such as 1% hydrocortisone.
“This can result in improvement, but if there is a continued irritant such as handwashing, detergents or a contact allergy to rings or clothes, these will have to be avoided to allow the area to improve.
“Many times I am asked what the ‘water’ or ‘fluid’ is inside of the blisters.
“This is only serum (a form of infection or trauma-fighting fluid) that is sent to heal the area.
“Opening up the area or washing it away delays healing, so it is best to avoid unroofing the blisters.”
And no matter how much they itch, do not scratch them.
More About Dyshidrotic Eczema
- Though it can affect children, it typically appears in people 20 to 40.
- Risk factors include family history and a personal history of contact dermatitis and hay fever.
Triggers of this itchy blister condition, which can also include flaking, are:
- Mental stress
- Pollen
- Excessive sweating of the hands
- Contact with the following items due to their nickel content: keys, cell phones, jewelry, metal buckles and buttons, zippers and eyeglass frames.
- Consumption of the following foods due to their nickel content: chocolate, almonds, oatmeal, soybeans and canned goods.
Dr. Schlessinger, founder of LovelySkin.com, has 25+ years of experience treating many skin conditions including melanoma. He’s founder of the Advanced Skin Research Center, a clinical facility that investigates new medications and treatments.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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