#asktheexpert my son 4 years olds finger tip skin is peeling and also toes. what to do? now it is inside hand palm also. I am applying moisturizer also..why it is coming.

Question

Accepted Answer

Skin peeling on the fingertips, toes, and palm in your 4-year-old son could be due to several reasons. Since you are already applying a moisturizer, but it's still happening, let's look at possible causes and solutions.

Possible Causes of Peeling Skin in Kids

1️⃣ Dry Skin or Excessive Hand Washing

Frequent washing, playing in water, or using harsh soaps can strip natural oils. Solution: Use a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer like Cetaphil, Sebamed, or Aveeno after every wash.

2️⃣ Vitamin Deficiency (B3, B7, or Zinc Deficiency)

If your child lacks Vitamin B3, B7 (Biotin), or Zinc, it can cause peeling skin. Solution: Give foods rich in vitamins – eggs, bananas, nuts, spinach, dairy, and whole grains.

3️⃣ Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) – If He Had Fever Earlier

If your son recently had fever, mouth ulcers, or rashes, then HFMD could be the reason. It naturally heals in 7–10 days, but hydration and rest are key.

4️⃣ Mild Fungal or Bacterial Infection

If peeling is accompanied by redness, itching, or cracks, a fungal infection (like ringworm) may be the cause. Solution: Apply antifungal cream (like Clotrimazole) and keep hands clean and dry.

5️⃣ Post-Viral Skin Peeling (After Fever or Infection)

Some kids get skin peeling after fever, cold, or infections like strep throat. It resolves naturally in a few weeks.

6️⃣ Eczema (If There’s Itching & Dry Patches)

If he has red, itchy, flaky skin, it could be eczema (atopic dermatitis). Solution: Apply thick emollient creams (like Vaseline or Mustela) and avoid scented soaps. What You Can Do at Home

✅ Moisturize 3-4 times a day (especially after washing hands).
✅ Use mild baby soap & avoid hot water baths.
✅ Give nutritious food (fruits, nuts, milk, and green veggies).
✅ Keep nails short to prevent scratching & infection.

When to See a Doctor?

🚨 If there are blisters, pus, or extreme redness.
🚨 If he has itching, fever, or swelling in hands & feet.
🚨 If peeling is worsening despite moisturizing.

Since it has spread to palms, you can observe for a few more days and try the above remedies. If it doesn’t improve, a doctor’s consultation will help identify the exact cause. Let me know if you need more details!