When soaked in water, the skin on the fingers can become wrinkly or “pruney.” Wrinkly fingers can also indicate a medical problem, such as dehydration or diabetes.
The skin on human fingers and toes is glabrous, meaning it is smooth and hairless. When it has been in contact with water for a long time, the glabrous skin on the fingers can look like a prune.
This change serves an evolutionary role, helping people grip wet objects or objects in water.
Most people will likely know the everyday experience of pruney figures after a long bath, swimming, or washing dishes. It may be more likely to happen in warm water than in cold water.
Scientists still do not fully understand the purpose of finger wrinkling when exposed to water or cold temperatures. 2021 research states that finger wrinkling in water improves efficiency when grasping wet objects, perhaps an evolutionary adaptation. Wrinkly fingers may reduce the grip necessary when gripping a wet object.
Water immersion is the most common cause of pruney fingers. The blood vessels in the fingertips constrict, creating grooves in the skin surface stemming from water entering the sweat pores.
However, other, less common causes of wrinkling or skin puckering on the fingers exist.
Pruney fingers are not usually the only symptoms of a medical condition. If a person does frequently experience pruney fingers due to a medical condition, they will often appear alongside other symptoms.
The following conditions may cause pruney or wrinkly skin on the fingers:
Dehydration
Dehydration can affect the skin, making it feel dry and cold. The skin on the fingertips may look shriveled.
Similarly, if a person gently pinches the skin on the back of their hand, it may not spring back as quickly as usual.
Older adults, children, and babies are at a higher risk of dehydration than other groups. People may be at greater risk in hot weather if they are unwell or if they have been exercising.
Other symptoms of dehydration include:
Vomiting and diarrhea can also cause dehydration. Anyone experiencing these symptoms may need to replace the electrolytes they have lost with over-the-counter (OTC) oral rehydration products. A pharmacist can advise on which products to use.
Eczema
Eczema is a condition that causes skin inflammation, rashes, itchiness, and discoloration. People with eczema experience flare-ups, followed by periods with fewer symptoms.
Atopic dermatitis is a long-term form of eczema. It causes dry skin that may itch or swell. Atopic dermatitis commonly affects the hands and fingers, the backs of the knees, and inside the elbows.
Eczema dries out the skin and can cause it to wrinkle or pucker. The fingertips may look pinched.
Diabetes
Diabetes affects the body’s ability to control blood sugar levels. People with diabetes may be more at risk of developing several skin conditions.
Conditions that can affect the fingers include:
- bacterial infections
- fungal infections
- disseminated granuloma annulare
Bacterial and fungal infections can affect the skin around the nails and between the fingers. Bacterial infections can cause the skin to become swollen and possibly wrinkled when the infection resolves.
Fungal infections usually cause itching and discoloration. They often create raised areas of skin.
Disseminated granuloma annulare is a rash that affects the extremities, such as the fingers or ears. It looks like raised red rings on the skin.
Pruney fingers caused by water exposure are nothing to worry about if they return to normal after being dry for some time.
If a person has pruney or wrinkly fingers without being in water but has no other noticeable symptoms, they may be mildly dehydrated. Anyone experiencing dehydration should drink more water.
If a person drinks enough water, pruney fingers may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Anyone concerned about frequently wrinkly fingers should speak with a doctor. Noting other symptoms and possible triggers can help the doctor make a diagnosis.
Fingers wrinkling in water and returning to usual do not damage the body. If pruney fingers bother a person, they may choose to wear rubber gloves to do the dishes or avoid spending a long time immersed in warm water.
Treating dehydration
Dehydration can affect the body’s ability to function, causing fatigue, headaches, and other symptoms. Drinking water regularly throughout the day can help a person stay hydrated.
At-risk groups, such as children or older adults, may need support to get enough liquid during the day. Suggestions for ways to help include:
- providing a drink with meals
- offering foods with a high liquid content, such as soup or watermelon
- finding more flavorful alternatives to water, such as herbal teas or clear juices
Treating diabetes
Managing blood sugar levels is essential for people with diabetes. Regular blood glucose checks, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercise can help maintain safe blood sugar levels.
People with diabetes are at higher risk for skin conditions, including those on the hands and fingers. Keeping skin clean and dry can help them avoid infections.
Using a mild soap and moisturizing the skin frequently can also reduce the risk of skin problems. Medication is available to treat many of the skin conditions associated with diabetes.
Treating eczema
There is no cure for eczema, but people can manage symptoms by combining OTC or prescription medication, creams, and gentle bath products and avoiding known triggers.
What deficiency causes pruney fingers?
Deficiencies that can cause pruney fingers include dehydration, as skin loses some elasticity when a person does not drink enough water.
Can fingers wrinkle without being in water?
Yes, fingers can wrinkle without being in water. Causes can include conditions such as experiencing dehydration.
How can a person get rid of wrinkly fingers?
Wrinkly fingers are not usually a cause for concern, mainly if they are wrinkly due to water immersion. They will unwrinkle over time as the skin dries. However, if they wrinkle without water immersion, treating them depends on the cause.
The skin on the fingers can become wrinkly due to water immersion, such as when swimming or bathing. However, wrinkled fingers can also indicate a medical problem, such as dehydration or diabetes.
Treatment for wrinkly fingers, if necessary, will depend on the cause.
