What is the cause of cracked palms?

Cracked palms are the most common cause of chapped hands and feet. It occurs in winter and affects the palm and plantar areas of adult manual workers, outdoor workers or areas subject to frequent friction and strain. The lesions are characterised by multiple fissures that develop along the skin lines. They may appear as senseless to spontaneous tingling, tenderness or burning pain, but are not usually itchy. The presence of eczema, palmoplantar keratosis or ringworm is considered when combined with symptoms such as itching and flaking.