Hand dermatitis (also called hand eczema) is common. The condition usually results from a combination of sensitive skin and irritation or an allergic reaction from materials touched. People with this condition often have dermatitis elsewhere on the body, and more often than not they will have blood relatives who also suffer from hand dermatitis.
What causes eczema on the hands?
We all have a natural protective film of oil on our skin. If this film is removed by soaps, detergents, chemicals, or other substances, the skin can become dry and cracked. Further exposure to environmental irritants then causes redness and inflammation.
Some people are just genetically predisposed to hand dermatitis. If you are one of these individuals, then it takes less environmental insult to cause the problem compared to someone who is not genetically pre-disposed.
When this condition arises as a result of an immune reaction, it is known as contact allergic dermatitis.
Even though it might appear so, this condition is not contagious.
What are the treatments for hand dermatitis?
Proper diagnosis is key here, as there are a number of different skin conditions that manifest themselves similarly. Make an appointment with your dermatologist so he or she can figure out exactly what you have and how best to treat the problem.
Treatment for hand dermatitis is similar to the protocol we mentioned for Dyshidrotic Dermatitis, so take a look at that page on our site for suggestions as far as treating the condition as well as avoiding making it worse.
To summarize, try to avoid contact with anything that causes irritation or allergic reaction, and wear protective gloves when gardening or doing any type of work that puts you in contact with potential irritants.
Try a special cream such as Puriya, a natural treatment option that many people have seen success with.
Topical steroids and oral antibiotics can treat severe cases and secondary infections.
With proper treatment, hand dermatitis typically disappears after a few days or a week. Once you are recovered keep track of anything that causes a recurrence so you can avoid it in the future.