Even though eczema can virtually show up anywhere on the body, the hands are one of the most common areas affected.  Eczema is marked by numerous symptoms, including intense itching, dryness, redness, and flakiness of the skin.  In more severe cases of hand eczema, blisters and weeping sores that lead to cracked skin and bleeding may also occur.

Hand dermatitis is usually due to external factors that causes an irritation of the skin.  This specific type of eczema is known as contact dermatitis, a localized rash or skin hypersensitivity caused by an allergic reaction to a foreign substance touching the skin.  There are two types of contact dermatitis:  irritant and allergic.  Irritant contact dermatitis results when the skin immediately reacts to a substance that damages the skin:  the longer the substance is on the skin, the more severe the reaction will be.  Allergic contact dermatitis occurs because of an immune system reaction.  The immune system overreacts to an offending substance or allergen and immediately overproduces antibodies against the substance.

Common chemicals that cause irritation leading to hand eczema include fragrances and dyes in cosmetic products, chemicals found in household cleaners, latex rubber, citrus fruit peelings, detergents, nickel in jewelry, tanning chemicals in leather, and some medications.  Plant allergens such as poison ivy and oak are also common hand eczema offenders.

There is no one eczema remedy for the hands, but there are a few measures you can take to alleviate the symptoms and prevent breakouts in the future.  First, avoid scratching the affected skin as it may worsen the condition and can lead to cracking or bleeding of the skin.  Avoid washing your hands to frequently, and do not apply excessive heat or cold on the hands.  You should also keep your hands moisturized with a fragrance-free lotion or emollient cream.

As soon as you experience a flare-up, try to immediately identify the offending substance and eliminate it from your environment.  You should also try to remain stress-free as possible since this may also lead to an eczema outbreak.

When doing household chores, avoid contact with chemicals by wearing non-latex cleaning gloves.  Even when wearing the gloves try to avoid extreme water temperatures being too hot or too cool.  Also be careful to not allow your hands to sweat inside of the gloves, since this can also make an eczema rash even worse.

If you wash anything, such as dishes or even your hair, with bare hands make sure you remove all jewelry, including rings, bracelets, etc.  Washing anything while you’re wearing jewelry can trap to irritating chemicals and water underneath the jewelry.

You should also pay attention to your diet.  There may be certain ingredients in foods that you are allergic to that is manifesting in your skin.  Eat a healthy diet comprised of fresh whole foods such as green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit.

If you’re unable to improve your eczema hand condition with the tips above, seek advice from a dermatologist.