Chapped hands
Hands - chapped and dryTo prevent chapped hands:
- Avoid excessive sun exposure or exposure to extreme cold or wind.
- Avoid washing hands with hot water.
- Limit hand washing as much as possible while maintaining good hygiene.
- Try to keep the air in your home humid.
- Use mild soaps or non-soap cleansers.
- Use moisturizing lotions on your hands regularly, especially if you live in a dry climate.
To soothe chapped and sore hands:
- Apply skin moisturizing lotion frequently (if this does not work, try creams or ointments).
- Avoid putting your hands in water unless necessary.
- If your hands do not improve, contact a dermatologist.
- Very strong hydrocortisone creams (available by prescription) are recommended for badly chapped hands.
- Wear gloves for doing everyday chores (cotton is best).
References
Dinulos JGH. Eczema and hand dermatitis. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 3.
James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Eczema, atopic dermatitis, and noninfectious immunodeficiency disorders. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach, MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 5.