I would suggest glove shopping. I feel the same way, they get in the way. But I did find a pair that fits tighter and has some texture to it so that they are actually more useful. I use diaper rash cream-must be the zinc oxide kind. It is thick, stays on and works wonders to heal the cracking. It would not be useful as a preventative though in your case. I'd put it on at night so it doesn't get all over or get washed off.