Why do fingers get wrinkly after a long bath or swim? A biomedical engineer explains

Recent research suggests blood vessels are the key to why fingers and toes turn pruny and pale after being submerged for a while.

By: Guy German, Binghamton University, State University of New York, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 23, 2026

Words: 978

Last Updated: 1 month, 3 weeks ago

By Guy German, Binghamton University, State University of New York

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com.

Why do fingers and toes get wrinkly and change color after a dip in a pool or a bath? – Raymond Y., age 12, Bothell, Washington

Skin is an awesome and weird organ. As the body’s …

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