Hi

I have noticed when I twist a lot of balloons in a stretch, the skin on my fingers start to flake / peel.
Do any of you have this problem?
If yes, any tips on how to alleviate this problem?

Some fingers also sort of blister. Though not a big problem, there have been concerned comments by some who have noticed this when I make balloons for them

Thanks

During certain times of the year I have a similar problem I use New-Skin® Liquid Bandage
Put it on before the job and you should be fine.

Thanks. Never heard of it. Hope I can find it in NZ

Your skin is drying out because of the powder inside of the balloons. Whenever you break off or the balloon pops a light coating of powder covers your hands. Dry and/or windy weather is also a problem.

I use A&D ointment, the generic type is ok. You can also just use a good hand cream. You should also make sure drink enough water to keep your body hydrated.
In addition you shouldn't cut your nails too short. If you do the skin right at the end of the nails gets harder and if it dries out and cracks it can be very painful and will take longer to heal.

Good luck. I know what it feels like.

I like using

O'Keffe's Working Hands

It helps my hands and also soothes the sting out of any cracks or cuts.

NYCT twister, FUDD. Thanks for the advice. Interesting that someone told me to use talc on my hands which seems the opposite kind of advice.
Hand cream / lotion seems like the cheapest and simplest method to try. Will try and see if lotion works and does not make twisting too slippery for me. And will find out more about O Keefe's working hands.
Bernie, can.t find that prodcut but I found out that there is another similar product (different brand name).
Thanks again

Paul,
First, try the hand creams, before & after you twist (and multiple times during the day wouldn't hurt) You may just have dry skin which is pretty common during colder months. If that doesn't work, you might be getting a bit of an allergic reaction.

I take an OTC allergy pill everyday and wear gloves to twist. Sometimes I'll still get a reaction so I use a steroid cream the doctor prescribed.

Take care of your hands! (or you'll have to go get a "real job" )

I use Corn Huskers Lotion. Best on the market IMO.

I agree with Chris. I use corn hunkers lotion once in the morning and right before I go to bed. It really seems to help. Thanks to NYCTwister about cutting your nails too short. My right index finger tip will sometimes give me trouble and I bet it's because I keep mail nail super short not only for twisting but for IPad, phone, and touch screen use.
David

Thanks for all the tips