If you’re one of the millions of people dealing with eczema on your hands, you know how challenging it can be.
It’s not just about the itching, redness, and cracked skin; it’s about the self-consciousness that can accompany them.
You might find yourself hiding your hands in your pockets, avoiding handshakes, or feeling embarrassed during social events.
Let’s look at some practical steps you can take to manage this complex condition.
What is Ezcema on the Hands?
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, dryness, and itchiness. It affects millions worldwide, making it one of the most common skin conditions.
While eczema can affect any body part, the hands are particularly susceptible because they’re constantly exposed to irritants like soap, water, and chemicals, and other environmental aggressors. Compared to other parts of the body, the hands have fewer oil glands, making the skin more prone to dryness.
Hand eczema often flares up due to triggers like cold weather, frequent handwashing, contact with irritants, and even stress. One of the most common types of eczema, it can affect the palms but also other parts of the hands. The main symptoms are dry, itchy or red skin. It can be severe at times, leading to cracking, soreness, swelling, or blisters, and the skin can become scaly, dry and thickened.
10 Ways to Manage Eczema on Your Hands Effectively
Managing eczema on your hands can feel like a constant battle, but with the right strategies, you can reduce flare-ups and protect your skin.
1. Moisturize Frequently
Use a calming, fragrance-free hand cream like our Body Repair Lotion to keep your skin hydrated. It’s formulated with ingredients like plant ceramides, aloe, glycerin, and vitamin E, all of which have proven effects on replenishing natural lipids, moisturizing and protecting the skin. It also contains oat extract and other natural anti-inflammatory ingredients to help soothe itching and irritation from eczema.
Apply it immediately after washing your hands and before bed to lock in moisture. If your palms are afflicted, try our Rescue & Relief Spray. It’s oil free, absorbs quickly, and can provide instant relief for itchy dry skin on hands and in between fingers. Keep a travel size on hand throughout the day.
Then, use our petrolatum/fragrance free Restorative Skin Balm to help lock in moisture, promote healing, and help replenish and reinforce the skin’s barrier. Use frequently during the day to help strengthen the barrier function, helping to prevent irritants from entering skin and shield the skin from environmental damage. If you find it too greasy to use during the day, try using it overnight. After slathering it on, put on a pair of soft cotton gloves to increase the softening effects.
2. Use Gentle, Unscented Soaps
Many soaps contain harsh detergents that can strip your skin of natural oils. Yet it’s best to wash your hands frequently, particularly in the winter during cold and flu season. The solution? Choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers whenever you can to reduce irritation. Then, take a travel-sized bottle of our Body Repair Lotion with you to apply after washing on the go.
3. Wear Protective Gloves
Wear gloves to shield your hands from water and chemicals when doing household chores like washing dishes or cleaning. Choose cotton-lined gloves to prevent sweat buildup, which can also irritate your skin.
4. Avoid Hot Water
Hot water can dry out your skin and worsen eczema symptoms. Wash your hands with lukewarm water instead, then pat them dry gently with a soft towel whenever possible. Avoid air dryers, as they are more drying to the skin.
5. Apply an Occlusive Barrier
During particularly harsh weather or when your hands are exposed to irritants, apply a protective barrier of our Restorative Skin Balm to seal in moisture and protect your skin.
6. Use a Humidifier
Dry indoor air, particularly during the winter months, can exacerbate eczema. Using a humidifier—especially in your bedroom overnight—can help maintain adequate moisture levels so the air is less likely to rob your skin of moisture.
7. Avoid Common Irritants
Identify and avoid substances that trigger your eczema. Common culprits include scented lotions, certain cleaning products, and latex gloves. Patch test new products to be sure they’re safe for your skin before using them.
8. Stick to a Regular Hand Care Routine
Consistency is key when managing eczema. Develop a daily hand-care routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturizing, wearing gloves when necessary, and avoiding irritants. Over time, this can significantly reduce flare-ups.
9. Manage Stress
Stress is a well-known trigger for eczema. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to keep flare-ups at bay.
10. Seek Medical Advice
If these treatments aren’t helping, consult with a dermatologist. Prescription treatments or phototherapy may help in severe cases.
Special Tips for Hand Eczema in Cold Weather
Cold weather brings unique challenges for hand eczema. The cold, dry air strips moisture from the skin, while indoor heating can exacerbate dryness, making flare-ups more likely. Here are a few more tips to protect your skin:
- Layer Your Gloves: Wear thin cotton gloves under heavier winter gloves to prevent irritation while keeping your hands warm and protected.
- Hydrate Overnight: Apply a thick layer of our Restorative Skin Balm at night and cover your hands with cotton gloves before bed.
- Protect Your Hands Outdoors: Wind and cold air can dry your skin. Always wear gloves and reapply moisturizer after being outside.
Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Hand Eczema Flare-Ups
Beyond topical treatments, certain lifestyle adjustments can help reduce flare-ups, too.
Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed, which help reduce inflammation. Avoid processed foods, sugar, and other known inflammatory triggers.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water supports overall skin health and combats dryness.
Wear Breathable Fabrics
Choose clothing made of cotton or other natural fibers to reduce irritation from sweat or rough materials.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Poor sleep can weaken the immune system and exacerbate eczema. Establish a regular sleep routine and create a calming bedtime environment.
Monitor Environmental Allergens
Dust, pollen, and pet dander can trigger eczema in some people. Regular cleaning and air purifiers can reduce exposure.
Track Your Triggers
Keep a journal to log flare-ups and potential causes, such as food, environmental factors, or stress. This can help you identify patterns and avoid your triggers in the future.
You Can Reduce Hand Eczema Flare-ups
Taking control of hand eczema may seem daunting, but small, consistent changes can make a big difference. By adopting daily habits that protect and nourish your skin, you can reduce flare-ups and feel more confident about your hands. Every little effort adds up to healthier, happier skin.
Have you been able to reduce hand eczema flare-ups?
Featured image by RDNE Stock project via Pexels.