Eczema can be a very distressful skin condition that can really bring a person down. Due to an increased amount of water being lost by the skin, it causes drying and cracking of the skin. This combination of drying and cracking causes the sufferer to be irritated, meaning they begin to scratch the itch, which leads to further infections and complications. Eczema can be a real pain once it begins, and keeping it in control is the pursuit by all sufferers. Eczema can occur all over the body, which different treatment regime is available depends on where on the body the eczema is. In this guide, we’ll be running through everything you need to know about mild eczema on the hands.
The reason for eczema of the hands is due to genetic traits that run through families and an immature immune system with high levels of IgE. Along with these internal factors, eczema of the hands can also be caused by external irritants and chemicals. If you are working in an environment that involves using your hands and chemicals, you are maybe more likely to form mild eczema of the hands. Jobs such as dishwashing, hairdressing, and healthcare work may all lead to eczema of the hands.
The symptoms of mild eczema of the hands are that of usual eczema symptoms around the body, and they include:
- Dry skin
- Redness
- Itchiness
- Swollen skin
- Blister formation
- Painful burning skin
- Cracking
Now you know what causes eczema of the hands and what symptoms you may have, the next step is finding out what treatments and solutions are available to help stop the mild eczema outbreak on the hands.
Firstly for the immediate and short-term problem, you can be given corticosteroids by either your doctor or pharmacist, depending on which country you are in. This is the quickest and most effective way to treat a sudden outbreak of eczema on the hands. It should be noted, though, that although they are the most effective, they should not be used frequently as it causes thinning of your skin, and over time it will cause them to become less effective. The most commonly prescribed corticosteroid is hydrocortisone. A little tip if you are using this is to keep the cream in the fridge as it will help with the cooling process when you apply it, which can dramatically reduce the urge to itch!
There are numerous creams, emollients, and ointments available for the long-term treatment plans for mild eczema of the hands. Many people will think that any old cream will do as long as they are creaming their hands, but this is not the case. With eczema of the hands, you need to be very careful with what type of cream you apply, as applying the wrong one can actually cause your hands to worsen. For mild eczema of hands, the best products to use are moisturizers, which are greasy and oily. The oil provides a layer of protection for the skin, which prevents water from leaving the skin, meaning it stays hydrated and prevents drying. As well as this, the oily layer also protects against irritants on your skin, meaning a double-action protection mechanism. Examples of good moisturizers to use include Vaseline. If you frequently have mild eczema of the hands, it may always be advised to use an oily moisturizer to prevent future outbreaks.
As you can see, mild eczema of the hands can be a very debilitating condition. You need to use your hands for literally everything so having them in primed condition is essential. We hope the information provided gives you a better understanding of the condition and also leaves you with some guidance if you are a sufferer.
There is no cure for eczema, only treatments to manage eczema symptoms like itching, skin inflammation, and excessive lesion or blister formation. Having eczema may directly affect your daily activities at home, in school, and also at work. Consulting a dermatologist is the best option in treating eczema, and as with any doctor visit, a diagnosis is often the best way to start.
Upon diagnosis of what type of eczema you have, you will be given eczema treatment creams to manage eczema’s various symptoms. Here are the most common eczema treatment creams prescribed:
• Moisturizers – Moisturizing creams are the most commonly prescribed treatment for eczema. It is a fact that healthy skin is well-moisturized skin; therefore, adding moisture can help fight the most common eczema symptom, which is skin itching. Severe itching is a hallmark of eczema, and moisturizers like Cetaphil or Eucerin can significantly relieve itching and decrease inflammation. Moisturizers best work when the skin is still damp; apply generously to lock in moisture.
Moisturizers can also be in an ointment form, and this works for people with extra dry skin. Dermatologists often prescribe this during cold winter months to prevent skin dryness.
Increasing moisture in the air around you, especially in the home, can also significantly improve skin moisture. Use a humidifier or place a pan of water near a fireplace or a furnace to increase air moisture content.
• Immunomodulators – Immunomodulators are creams used to control the person’s immune system response to eczema. This is the most recent breakthrough in the treatment of eczema but has been found to increase the risk of developing skin cancer if used continuously. Elidel (pimecrolimus) and Protopic (tacrolimus) are some examples of topical immunomodulators.
• Steroids – The use of steroids in eczema treatment has been the most effective and most trusted by many dermatologists. Topical corticosteroids can be over the counter preparations or prescribed by a skin specialist like Cutivate (Fluticasone Propionate Cream) or Elocon (mometasone). These creams come in different strengths, and your dermatologist can best prescribe the best formulation for you.
Continued use of topical steroids may cause thinning of the affected area, the incidence of stretch marks, especially the groin and armpits, and cause an allergic reaction in some patients. Therefore, it is essential to consult a dermatologist regarding the appropriate topical steroid treatment for your condition and not self-medicate.
• Anti Itch Creams – Anti-itch creams and ointments can also be prescribed by dermatologists to control severe itching. Do not apply anti-itch creams on open or blistered skin; wash with mild soap and dry skin completely before application. Placing cool compresses can also help relieve itching and inflammation of eczema lesions.
These are just some of the most common eczema treatment creams prescribed by dermatologists. You may also be prescribed skin antibiotics or oral antibiotics to control skin infection for severe eczema cases. Always use prescribed medications with care and never use them beyond their intended purpose.
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