Hand eczema is an inflammatory condition of the skin which may be caused by:
- excessive contact with e.g. water and detergents (irritant contact eczema)
- allergy (allergic contact eczema)
- genetics (atopic eczema)
Eczema is characterized by red and rough skin often with small blisters, white scale or cracks. The skin becomes dry, tight and it usually itches, stings or hurts. While normal, dry skin is improved by regular use of moisturizers, hand eczema is only removed by specific treatment.
Hand eczema is a widespread problem among certain professions such as hairdressers, healthcare workers and cleaning assistants due to frequent contact with water, soap, detergents, etc. However, it may also be an allergic reaction due to physical contact with e.g. nickel, latex or allergenic substances in creams, hair dye and so on. Currently, many new cases are seen as a consequence of frequent hand washing to prevent coronavirus infection (Covid-19), which dries out the skin and increases the risk of eczema.
Chronic hand eczema may cause a huge impact on quality of life. It can be a physical obstacle to carrying out our daily activities, both at home and at work, not to mention the social stigma that having such a visible illness generates.
Although there is no definitive cure for it, there are different treatments depending on the type of eczema. To effectively treat eczema and prevent new outbreaks, it is therefore important to get a specific diagnosis. If a contact allergy is suspected, your dermatologist may perform a patch test where an allergic reaction to over 30 known allergenic substances is tested.
Book your appointment to get a treatment that fits your needs.
For more information, see: https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/hand-eczema/
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