Limit handwashing as much as possible while remaining sanitary.
Avoid washing hands with hot water.
Try to keep the air in your home humid.
Use moisturizing lotions on your hands regularly, especially if you live in a dry climate.
Use mild soaps, or non-soap cleansers.
Avoid excessive sun exposure or exposure to extreme cold or wind.
To soothe chapped and sore hands:
Avoid putting your hands in water unless necessary.
Apply skin lotion frequently (if this doesn't work, try creams or even ointments).
Wear gloves for doing everyday chores (cotton is best).
Hydrocortisone creams (available over the counter) are recommended for badly chapped hands.
If your hands don't improve, contact a dermatologist. For related information also see eczema and contact dermatitis.
Review Date: 10/29/2004
Reviewed By: Jonathan Kantor, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
