There are many causes of skinned fingers in children, such as the more common exfoliative keratolytic disorder, where repeated philodermic peeling and dry cracking without an inflammatory response; childhood eczema, where scratching, rubbing the affected area or the rash recovery process may lead to peeling; and dry skin in winter, when the skin is dry and not properly moisturised and cared for may result in peeling and cracking.
Some of the more serious illnesses in children can also be associated with skin peeling, such as scarlet fever, which causes peeling of the fingers 2 weeks after onset, and Kawasaki disease, which causes peeling of the ends of the fingers and toes. In general, simple skin peeling on the fingers in children can be investigated for medication, allergen exposure, sunburn, inadequate protection, etc. If it is accompanied by high fever, sore throat, or generalised skin lesions, it is also important to seek medical attention to avoid delaying the condition.