Hand eczema can be treated with a combination of home remedies, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications. Here are some tips and products that can help manage hand eczema:
Home remedies:
- Moisturize within 3 minutes of bathing. Gently pat the skin dry with a towel and apply an oil-based moisturizer before the skin has fully dried. This can help seal in water from the shower or bath before it evaporates.
- Apply moisturizer to your hands immediately after washing and each time you wash your hands.
- Avoid waterless, antibacterial cleansers, which often contain ingredients like alcohol and solvents that are very hard on your hands.
- Wear soft, smooth materials next to your skin, preferably 100% cotton. Avoid scratchy materials, such as pure wool, polyester, or acrylic.
- Keep your fingernails short to avoid injuring your skin when you scratch.
Over-the-counter medications:
- Coconut oil contains beneficial fatty acids that can add moisture to the skin, which can help people with dry skin and eczema.
- Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Always dilute essential oils before using them on the skin.
Prescription medications:
- Topical corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and itching.
- Pimecrolimus cream is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory cream that can help reduce inflammation and itching.
- Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light to reduce inflammation and itching.
Its important to avoid irritants that can trigger or worsen hand eczema, such as soap, water, sweat, germs, extreme temperatures, rough surfaces, and dirt. If your eczema is severe or doesnt improve with home remedies and over-the-counter medications, talk to your doctor about prescription medications or other treatment options.
