Hello. Thanks for writing to us at healthcaremagic This condition is due to underlying extreme dryness of the skin of the palms, which is usually seen in atopic individuals. This is a cummulative condition that is further exacerbated by wet work, soaps, detergents etc in those who are engaged in repeated hand washing as required by virtue of there profession e.g nurses and doctors/surgeons. The condition is chronic therefore also known as chronic cummulative irritant contact dermatitis. Urea and ammonium lactate based moisturizers are quite good for extremely dry and cracked, fissured skin in this condition. Apart from using moisturizers, I also usually recommend my patients to use a potent topical steroid e.g clobetasol propionate, twice daily. Steroids are antinflammatory and help heal the cracks and fissures. The condition may recur in those individuals whose occupations demand frequent hand washing and frequent contact with soaps and detergents. Regular use of a moisturizer frequently and each time after hand washing is recommended. Soaps and detergent use should be restricted to the minimum. The condition may severely impair routine activities so much so that it may even require a job change in those in whom the condition is occupational. Regards