How to cure eczema on hands is a common question among people who suffer from this chronic skin condition. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a type of inflammation that causes red, itchy, and dry patches on the skin.
It can affect any part of the body, but the hands are especially prone to eczema flare-ups due to frequent exposure to irritants, allergens, and environmental factors.
If you have eczema on your hands, you know how frustrating and painful it can be. It can interfere with your daily activities, such as washing dishes, typing, or holding objects. It can also affect your self-esteem and confidence, as you may feel embarrassed or ashamed of your appearance.
But don’t worry, there is hope. In this article, we will share with you some of the best ways to cure eczema on hands, or at least reduce its symptoms and prevent further damage.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of how to cure eczema on hands and improve your quality of life. Let’s get started!
Eczema is the medical term for a skin disorder in which skin looked inflamed and irritated. This inflammation can occur anywhere but is most often affected are the hands and feet. Types of eczema are the most frequently encountered is Atopic Eczema or atopic dermatitis.
Eczema symptoms will begin to appear during the children, especially when they are aged 2 years. In some cases, eczema will disappear with increasing age, but not a few others will suffer from all the life. With proper treatment, the disease can be controlled by either reducing the number of recurrences.
Eczema is divided into 4 types, Atopic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, Nummular Eczema, and Stasis Dermatitis.
Atopic Dermatitis, this eczema is a hereditary disease and most often we find in the community. Usually occurs in infancy or children in the form of itching, skin inflammation or fever.
Contact Dermatitis, caused by delaying immune system due to skin contact with allergenic compounds causing skin inflammation. This type of eczema can cause of perfumes, cosmetics, dyes, metal materials, soap, detergents and some beauty or other cleaning products.
Nummular eczema, usually associated with dry skin and occur on the outside of the legs, hands and arms.
Stasis eczema, it is the chronic eczema that occurs in the lower area of the foot section in the related to varicose veins.
If you are interested in learning more about other skin problems, such as acne, psoriasis, or rosacea, you can check out our Skin Problems section. It offers solutions and remedies for various skin conditions, as well as expert advice and tips on how to achieve healthy and radiant skin.
What Causes Eczema On Hands And How To Identify It
Eczema on hands is not a single disease, but a symptom of an underlying problem. The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the possible triggers of eczema on hands are:
- Allergens: These are substances that trigger an immune response in your body, such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, mold, or food. If you are allergic to something, your skin may react by producing inflammation and itching.
- Irritants: These are substances that damage or irritate your skin, such as soap, detergent, bleach, perfume, or chemicals. If you are sensitive to something, your skin may become dry, cracked, or inflamed after contact.
- Stress: This is a psychological or emotional state that affects your nervous system and immune system. If you are stressed, your body may release hormones that increase inflammation and lower your skin’s barrier function, making it more vulnerable to eczema.
- Weather: This is the condition of the atmosphere, such as temperature, humidity, or wind. If the weather is too hot, cold, dry, or humid, your skin may lose moisture and become irritated or inflamed.
- Hormones: These are chemical messengers that regulate various functions in your body, such as growth, metabolism, or reproduction. If your hormones are imbalanced, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, your skin may become more sensitive or prone to eczema.
To identify eczema on hands, you need to look for the following signs and symptoms:
- Redness: This is the most obvious sign of inflammation, as your skin becomes flushed or discolored due to increased blood flow.
- Itching: This is the most common and annoying symptom of eczema, as your skin feels irritated or uncomfortable and urges you to scratch.
- Dryness: This is the result of your skin losing moisture and natural oils, making it rough, flaky, or scaly.
- Cracking: This is the consequence of your skin becoming brittle and breaking due to lack of elasticity and hydration.
- Blisters: These are small, fluid-filled bumps that form on your skin due to infection or inflammation. They may ooze, crust, or bleed when popped or scratched.
- Thickening: This is the outcome of your skin becoming thicker and harder due to chronic scratching or rubbing. It may also change color or texture, becoming darker or leathery.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms on your hands, you may have eczema and should consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
How To Cure Eczema On Hands With Natural Remedies, Over-The-Counter Products, And Prescription Medications
There is no cure for eczema on hands, but there are ways to treat it and reduce its severity and frequency. Depending on the cause and type of your eczema, you may benefit from one or more of the following methods:
Natural remedies
These are substances or practices that use natural ingredients or processes to heal or soothe your skin, such as herbs, oils, or lifestyle changes. Some of the natural remedies that may help with eczema on hands are:
- Aloe vera: This is a plant that has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and moisturizing properties. You can apply its gel directly to your affected skin or use a cream or lotion that contains it.
- Coconut oil: This is a fat that has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and emollient properties. You can apply it directly to your affected skin or use a soap or shampoo that contains it.
- Oatmeal: This is a grain that has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and soothing properties. You can make a paste by mixing it with water and apply it to your affected skin or use a bath product that contains it.
- Honey: This is a sweet substance that has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. You can apply it directly to your affected skin or use a cream or ointment that contains it.
- Chamomile: This is a flower that has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and calming properties. You can make a tea by steeping it in hot water and apply it to your affected skin or use a cream or lotion that contains it.
- Stress management: This is a practice that involves reducing or coping with the sources of stress in your life, such as work, family, or health issues. You can use techniques such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, or counseling to help you relax and improve your mood.
If you are looking for a natural remedy that can help with eczema on hands, you may want to try Lactobacillus Acidophilus. This is a type of probiotic bacteria that can suppress infections, boost the immune system, and control cholesterol levels. You can find out more about its benefits, warnings, and dosage in this article.
Over-the-counter products
These are substances or devices that you can buy without a prescription from a pharmacy or a store, such as creams, lotions, or bandages. Some of the over-the-counter products that may help with eczema on hands are:
Moisturizers
These are substances that hydrate and protect your skin, preventing it from drying out and cracking. You should apply them regularly, especially after washing your hands or exposing them to water or irritants. You should look for moisturizers that are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and contain ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, or urea.
Corticosteroids
These are substances that reduce inflammation and itching, relieving your symptoms and preventing further damage. You should apply them sparingly, only to the affected areas, and follow the instructions on the label. You should look for corticosteroids that are mild to moderate in strength, such as hydrocortisone or betamethasone.
Antihistamines
These are substances that block the effects of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic reactions and itching. You should take them orally, as directed by the label, and avoid driving or operating machinery, as they may cause drowsiness. You should look for antihistamines that are non-sedating, such as cetirizine or loratadine.
Bandages
These are devices that cover and protect your skin, preventing it from scratching or rubbing. You should use them only when necessary, and change them frequently, as they may harbor bacteria or irritate your skin. You should look for bandages that are soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, such as cotton or silk.
Prescription medications
These are substances or devices that you can only get with a prescription from a doctor, such as pills, injections, or phototherapy. Some of the prescription medications that may help with eczema on hands are:
Immunosuppressants
These are substances that suppress your immune system, reducing inflammation and preventing your body from attacking your own skin.
You should take them orally, as prescribed by your doctor, and monitor your blood pressure, liver function, and kidney function, as they may cause serious side effects. You should look for immunosuppressants that are effective and safe, such as cyclosporine or azathioprine.
Biologics
These are substances that target specific molecules or cells that are involved in inflammation, blocking their action and improving your symptoms.
You should receive them by injection, as prescribed by your doctor, and watch for signs of infection, allergic reaction, or cancer, as they may cause serious side effects. You should look for biologics that are approved and proven, such as dupilumab or ustekinumab.
Phototherapy
This is a device that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to treat your skin, reducing inflammation and killing bacteria. You should undergo this treatment under the supervision of a doctor, and wear protective goggles, clothing, and sunscreen, as it may cause skin damage or cancer. You should look for phototherapy that is suitable and effective, such as narrowband UVB or PUVA.
How To Prevent Eczema On Hands From Recurring Or Worsening
Treating eczema on hands is only half of the battle. You also need to prevent it from recurring or worsening, which can be challenging but not impossible. Here are some tips on how to prevent eczema on hands from flaring up:
Avoid triggers
This is the most important and effective way to prevent eczema on hands. You need to identify and avoid the factors that cause or aggravate your eczema, such as allergens, irritants, stress, weather, or hormones. You can do this by keeping a diary of your symptoms and exposures, doing allergy tests, or consulting a doctor.
Protect your hands
This is the second most important and effective way to prevent eczema on hands. You need to shield your hands from harmful elements, such as water, soap, detergent, chemicals, or cold. You can do this by wearing gloves, using mild or moisturizing products, or applying a barrier cream or ointment.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
This is the third most important and effective way to prevent eczema on hands. You need to support your immune system and skin health, by eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking or drinking. You can also take supplements that contain vitamins, minerals, or omega-3 fatty acids, which may help with eczema.
Other Tips
- To treat this eczema is to do a regular bowel movements with the eat a lot of vegetables and fruits. Reduce foods that are difficult to digest, sweet food, cakes, fatty foods, fish, and meat. Avoid exposed to detergents.
- Do not bathe too frequently (because if it’s too wet, it will often hard-drying) or if necessary just wipe it.
- When going to bathe, use warm water.
- Avoid contact with a cloth or blanket made with wool, wear clothing that is clean, not tight and absorb perspiration.
- When the eczema is due to an allergy to certain foods, then avoid those foods.
How To Cope With The Emotional And Psychological Effects Of Eczema On Hands
Eczema on hands is not only a physical problem, but also a mental and emotional one. It can affect your self-esteem, confidence, and social life, as you may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or isolated because of your appearance or condition.
It can also cause stress, anxiety, depression, or frustration, as you may struggle with the pain, itching, or inconvenience of your eczema.
But don’t despair, there are ways to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of eczema on hands. Here are some suggestions on how to deal with the negative feelings and thoughts that eczema may bring:
Seek professional help
This is the most important and effective way to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of eczema on hands. You need to consult a doctor, dermatologist, psychologist, or counselor, who can help you with your physical, mental, and emotional needs.
They can provide you with the appropriate diagnosis, treatment, medication, therapy, or support, that can improve your condition and well-being.
Join a support group
This is the second most important and effective way to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of eczema on hands. You need to connect with other people who have eczema or similar skin conditions, who can understand and empathize with your situation.
You can do this by joining an online or offline community, forum, or group, where you can share your experiences, feelings, tips, or resources, and receive encouragement, advice, or feedback.
Practice self-care
This is the third most important and effective way to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of eczema on hands. You need to take care of yourself, by doing things that make you happy, relaxed, or fulfilled.
You can do this by engaging in hobbies, interests, or passions, such as reading, writing, painting, or gardening, or by pampering yourself, such as getting a massage, manicure, or facial.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about how to cure eczema on hands:
Is eczema on hands contagious?
No, eczema on hands is not contagious. You cannot catch it or spread it to other people by touching, sharing, or kissing.
However, eczema on hands may be caused or worsened by infections, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, which can be contagious. Therefore, you should keep your hands clean and avoid contact with infected people or objects.
What is the best cream for eczema on hands?
There is no single best cream for eczema on hands, as different creams may work better for different people, depending on the cause and type of their eczema.
However, some of the general features that you should look for in a cream for eczema on hands are: fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and corticosteroid-based.
You should also consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any cream for eczema on hands, as some creams may have side effects or interactions with other medications.
How long does it take to cure eczema on hands?
There is no definite answer to how long it takes to cure eczema on hands, as it depends on the severity and frequency of your eczema, as well as the effectiveness and consistency of your treatment.
However, some of the general factors that can affect the duration of your eczema on hands are: the cause and type of your eczema, the trigger and exposure of your eczema, the treatment and prevention of your eczema, and the lifestyle and habits of your eczema.
Therefore, you should follow the advice and guidance of your doctor or dermatologist, who can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment accordingly.
Bottom Line
Eczema on hands is a common and chronic skin condition that can cause physical, mental, and emotional distress. However, it is not a hopeless or helpless situation, as there are ways to cure eczema on hands, or at least reduce its symptoms and prevent further damage. In this article, we have shared with you some of the best ways to cure eczema on hands, such as:
- What causes eczema on hands and how to identify it
- How to treat eczema on hands with natural remedies, over-the-counter products, and prescription medications
- How to prevent eczema on hands from recurring or worsening
- How to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of eczema on hands
We hope that this article has been helpful and informative for you, and that you have learned something new and useful about how to cure eczema on hands.
Remember, you are not alone, and you can overcome this challenge with the right knowledge, treatment, and support. We wish you all the best in your journey to cure eczema on hands and improve your quality of life. Thank you for reading!
If you are wondering what other types of allergies can affect your skin or health, you can read our article on Types Of Allergies In Human. It covers 11 common and rare allergies, such as food, drug, insect, or latex allergies, and their causes, symptoms, and treatments. You can also learn how to prevent or manage allergic reactions.
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