Hand Eczema
Hand Eczema Research in Portland, Oregon
Hand eczema, also called hand dermatitis, is extremely common and can be caused by many factors:
- water, cleaning products, soaps/detergents, fragrances, chemicals and even preservatives and botanicals in skin care products.
- some of these products may even cause an allergic reaction, and your dermatologist may suggest further testing to determine which products may be the culprit.
What does hand eczema look like?
Many people start with dry, chapped hands that later get red and inflamed. Often, the tendency to get skin rashes is inherited.
Irritation is common under rings and it is important to remove rings when washing hands and dry well before replacing. If water or soap is trapped under the ring irritation can get worse.
Hand eczema is not contagious, although your dermatologist may check to be sure there is not a fungal or bacterial infection. Signs of infection may include open sores that are weeping or oozing, blisters, or scaling.
How is hand eczema treated?
Hand eczema is treated by avoiding potential irritants or allergens, moisturizing, and may require prescription medications.
- Wearing gloves when washing dishes, cleaning, or otherwise in water can be helpful.
- Applying a cream moisturizer such as Cetaphil cream or CeraVe cream after hands have been in water can also prove to be beneficial
Hand rashes can be stubborn or come back, so please let your dermatologist know if you are experiencing a flare, hands look infected or if the rash is not improving in 2-3 weeks.
