Hand Eczema

Hand eczema or hand dermatitis is extremely common. It begins with dry, chapped hands that may become red, scaly, and inflamed. Numerous items can irritate skin including over exposure to water, too much dry air, harsh soaps, detergent, solvents, cleaning agents, chemicals, rubber gloves, and even ingredients in skin and personal care products. Even “harmless” things like water and baby products can make this condition worse. Your dermatologist will try to find it what substances thank you in your everyday routine could be causing or contributing to the problem. Your skin may get better by changing products or avoiding an ingredient completely.

Most of the causes of hand eczema usually fall into one of two types: an internally generated skin reaction or an externally triggered “contact” rash.  Atopic eczema (allergic), dyshidrotic eczema (tiny blisters that form on the hands and feet), or nummular eczema (form in scaly, coin-shaped patterns) are internal skin reactions.  Hand rashes caused by external substances are referred to as allergic contact dermatitis or irritant contact dermatitis.

Your dermatologist will work with you to uncover and identify the possible causes of your hand dermatitis. If your dermatologist suspects the rash is due to an allergy to some external substance, a patch test may be done.  This is typically performed by a dermatologist or an allergist in office and involves testing the skin on your arms or back to see what specific ingredients might be causing the skin reaction. If there’s a positive reaction a list of products that contain these ingredients and should be avoided may be provided.

No, hand eczema is not contagious, but it can be chronic and frustrating to treat. It will be helpful to try and remember which substances or what activity triggered your most recent flareup and discuss it with your dermatologist. Since many hand rashes can be stubborn, it’s important to start treatment early and use the prescription crams as directed.

A combination of methods maybe used to heal and control your hand eczema. Prescription corticosteroids are often needed for full relief and clearance.  Your dermatologist will also discuss things to avoid including keeping your hands away from hot water and or harsh soaps. 

• It’s important to protect your hands against harsh soaps, cleansers, and other chemicals by wearing vinyl gloves. Have a few pairs and keep them in your kitchen, bathroom, nursery, and laundry areas. Avoid rubber/latex gloves since many people are sensitive to them. You may also be helpful to wear white cotton gloves under the vinyl gloves to offer more hand protection.
• Avoid hand washing dishes or clothes without hand protection.
• When washing hands is lukewarm water and very little soap. Remove rings whenever washing or working with your hands because they trap water and moisture next to the skin, which allows hand dermatitis to develop.
• When outdoors in cool weather, wear warm gloves to prevent dry chapped skin and always use moisturizing lotions to keep your hands hydrated.