Chapped skin: Balms and care products to nourish and repair dry skin : Your online pharmacy selection

What are chapped skin cracks and how can we recognize them?

Cracks are small, superficial fissures in the skin, mainly on the lips, hands and sometimes feet. They often appear during cold, dry spells, when air humidity is low. These skin lesions can be painful, causing a pulling or burning sensation.

What are the main causes of chapping?

The causes of chapping are varied, but generally include:

• Exposure to cold: extreme cold reduces blood circulation and dries out the skin.
• Lack of hydration: insufficient hydration can make the skin more vulnerable to external aggressions.
• Use of aggressive soaps: chemical products and stripping soaps can destroy the skin's protective hydrolipidic film.

How can I prevent chapping?

To effectively prevent chapping, we recommend :

• Moisturize the skin: regularly apply moisturizing creams and balms specifically for exposed areas.
• Protect skin from the cold: use gloves and scarves to cover sensitive areas when out and about in winter.
• Use humidifiers: maintain adequate humidity levels inside the home to combat dryness in heated air.

What treatments are recommended for chapped skin?

The following measures are recommended to treat chapped skin:

• Apply healing products: creams and ointments containing glycerine, shea butter or lanolin can help repair the skin.
• Avoid aggravating factors: limit exposure to cold and avoid irritating soaps and products.
• Seek medical advice: for persistent or very painful chapping, it is advisable to consult a health professional.

Can chapping be a sign of underlying health problems?

Although chapping is generally benign, it can sometimes be indicative of more serious medical conditions such as psoriasis, eczema or specific dermatological disorders. If chapping is accompanied by other symptoms such as excessive redness, bleeding or infection, it's important to consult a dermatologist.

When is the best time to apply a moisturizing cream to prevent chapping?

To maximize the effectiveness of chapped skin moisturizers, we recommend applying them immediately after a bath or shower, when the skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock moisture into the skin. It's also a good idea to apply a moisturizing balm before going out in cold, dry weather.

Can natural remedies be used to treat chapped skin?

Yes, some natural remedies can be effective in treating chapped skin. Coconut oil, for example, is renowned for its moisturizing and healing properties. Aloe vera, with its soothing and restorative properties, can also help relieve pain and accelerate the healing of chapped lips. However, it's important to test these products on a small area of skin before using them more widely to avoid allergic reactions.

How can chapped lips be distinguished from other types of skin lesions?

Cracks are generally characterized by small, clear, superficial fissures, often accompanied by a pulling or burning sensation. They differ from rashes or infections, which can feature extensive redness, pustules or excessive heat of the affected skin. When in doubt, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional for a precise diagnosis.

Are children more likely to develop chapped skin? Why or why not?

Children may indeed be more susceptible to developing chapping, particularly on the lips and hands, as their skin is thinner and more delicate than that of adults. What's more, they may not be as attentive to regular moisturizing and protection against the cold, increasing their risk of chapping during the winter months.

Are there any specific solutions for chapped feet?

Chapped feet, particularly on the heels, can be effectively treated with a targeted skin care routine. We recommend the use of repair creams rich in urea or salicylic acid, which help to gently exfoliate dead skin and intensely moisturize. In addition, wearing cotton socks overnight after applying the cream can help maximize absorption and accelerate crack healing.