Hand eczema is a general term used to describe varying degrees of skin irritation on the hands. You may develop itchy, spreading, scaly rashes. You may also experience red patches, cracks, and pain. Some people may develop blisters that ooze or fill with fluid. These problems can occur at any time in life, and some people are more prone to them: hay fever or other allergies (atopy), frequent exposure of the hands to water or chemicals due to work or lifestyle, etc.
Your dermatologist will try to determine the cause of your hand eczema by asking you about your activities at home and at work. Therefore, your answers are very important; they can help identify the root cause of the problem.
If your symptoms are long-lasting or severe, a patch test can be performed on chemicals and allergens you use at home or at work. This test can reveal which substances are causing the reaction.
Cortisone creams and ointments are recommended for hand eczema. The use of cortisone-containing creams and ointments should be under the supervision and appropriate treatment by a doctor. Frequent and unnecessary use carries the risk of thinning the skin. Lifestyle is very important in hand eczema. Hand cleaning products and hand creams should be as additive-free as possible. Your dermatologist will recommend the most suitable product.
PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN AT HOME
Frequent housework can trigger eczema flare-ups. Constantly wetting your hands can worsen the condition by disrupting the skin's protective layer. Soaps and detergents containing perfumes and additives also increase susceptibility to eczema. Therefore, if you have or have had hand eczema, you should avoid washing your hands too frequently and take the following precautions.
• After using the toilet, you should wash your hands with warm water and a fragrance-free cleanser.
• After washing your hands, gently dry them and immediately apply moisturizer. Petroleum jelly is ideal, but creams (not lotions) are also quite effective and should be applied after each wash.
• Wear gloves for protection while doing all household chores. For dry work, wear cotton gloves, and for wet work, wear cotton gloves first, then powder-free vinyl gloves over them. These two-piece gloves are readily available on the market (Mapa gloves).
• It's best not to wear waterproof gloves for longer than 15-20 minutes.
• Irritants can remain under the ring. Remove your ring while working and before washing and drying your hands. Also, regularly clean your ring at night with a teaspoon of ammonia in a glass of water. Rinse and dry your ring before wearing it.
• Wear thick, seamless leather or fabric gloves when working outdoors. Leather gloves protect your hands from cold, wind, and dry air. Do not use wool, as it can be irritating.
HERE ARE THE MEASURES TO BE TAKEN
In addition to the measures taken at home, the following measures will also be very helpful:
When working in wet environments, use heavy-duty vinyl or neoprene gloves and cotton gloves. Wash your cotton gloves regularly. Also wash your vinyl gloves.
Wear leather or clean fabric gloves when doing dry work.
Avoid industrial handwashing products and antibacterial cleaners.
Keep your work clothes, protective covers, tools, and work areas clean. The accumulation of irritants will worsen your problem.
Using a moisturizer is very important!
The best moisturizers are oil-based. They contain fewer additives, preserve the skin's natural moisture, and create a protective layer against irritants. Products containing petroleum jelly, glycerin, and urea are best suited to provide this. It's beneficial to carry a small tube with you throughout the day for continuous use.
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