Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions noted by men and women across the world. In fact, Allergy UK estimates that around 15 million people in the UK are living with some degree of eczema on a daily basis. Characterised by extreme dryness around the body, it is somewhat more prevalent on hands. This is largely because we use our hands to perform a great many tasks, both at home and at work. And, without the proper care, it becomes easy to neglect our hands in favour of getting more work done.
One of the most effective treatments for eczema is moisturising. And when it comes to hand eczema or hand dermatitis, having the right products on hand can have a significant impact. In today’s blog, we’re looking at what hand cream is best for eczema.
What causes hand eczema?
Eczema is caused by a number of factors. Genetics, contact allergens or specific irritating substances can all trigger a dry skin episode or exacerbate the symptoms you’re already having. For many of those living with this condition on a daily basis, understanding the things that can make their skin worse is part of the battle. In doing so, you are able to take steps to minimise exposure and put plans into place to improve skin health.
For many people, their profession is one of the key reasons that eczema becomes such a big problem. Exposure to chemicals, perfumes, acids, machine oil and even organic matter can all impact the protective oils on our skin’s surface and cause damage. This means that people who work in cleaning, catering, hairdressing, healthcare, mechanical jobs and the construction industry are more likely to deal with these ailments.
What are the symptoms of hand eczema?
Dryness and itching are just a part of hand eczema. Depending on its severity, you may have:
- Red patches
- Scaled skin
- Inflamed and swollen patches
- A burning sensation
- Deep cracks to the skin’s surface
- Bleeding
- Weeping skin
- Pus or other pain
What is the best hand cream?
Dry skin, including hand dermatitis, is generally caused by damage to the skin’s external layer. There is a protective film of natural oils here called sebum. This helps to lubricate the skin and maintain a good level of moisture, ensuring the protective barrier stays intact. When this becomes inhibited or is not excreted in the right quantities, the skin becomes dry and easily damaged.
One of the most effective and easiest ways to combat this is to incorporate a good hand cream into your routine. While the main issue here is moisture-loss, you’ll want to avoid a hand cream that has too high water content. As this evaporates from the skin, it is likely to draw even more moisture from the epidermis and aggravate the problem even further. Instead, opt for a hand cream that is rich in essential oils. In fact, many healthcare professionals advise those dealing with the most severe types of eczema to lather their hands in petroleum jelly to benefit from extreme nourishment.
Emollients
Emollients are moisturising treatments that are used to flush necessary hydration into the skin. They form an oily layer on top of the dermis which traps water within the skin. For this reason, high-oil content is vital when searching for a hand cream. The Malée Verdure Nourishing Hand Cream is an ideal choice. Made using 100% active natural ingredients, it has been scientifically proven to condition and repair dry skin. The cream is non-greasy to the touch but flushed with rich oils to help prevent additional moisture loss from your skin. It leaves behind our signature scent while helping to reduce irritation at the same time.
How to use hand creams to treat eczema
It is important to implement a caring routine for your hands that incorporates an oil-based moisturising. Doing so will ensure you get the best results. To help control hand eczema, you should:
- Wash your hands with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid hot water as this will strip the skin of more moisture and cause more potential damage
- Pat your hands dry rather than rubbing them. This will protect the skin’s surface by eliminating abrasive movements.
- Apply an oil-based moisturiser immediately after cleaning your hands. This will allow it to seep in straight away and offer protective benefits from that very moment.
- Avoid alcohol-based cleansers where possible as these are potentially damaging to the skin’s outer layer.
- Protect your hands when coming into contact with chemicals, perfumes or other triggers. Wearing cotton or protective gloves is the best way to do this. You can also wear waterproof vinyl gloves when washing your hair or ask a member of your family to do this for you.
- Clean your rings regularly and avoid wearing them during cleaning or other triggering tasks. The chemicals and irritants can become trapped under rings and cause damage, even after you’ve finished the activity at hand.
- Speak to your doctor. Depending on the severity of your hand eczema, they may need to prescribe topical creams or ask you to wear petroleum jelly overnight for an intense treatment.
Conclusion
Hand eczema can be inhibiting and prevent you from doing specific jobs due to the pain. With the right treatment, proper care plan and an oil-based hand cream, you’ll be able to effectively treat dry skin issues from home. Here at Malée, we work with the finest, 100% active natural ingredients and oils to help infuse skin with the necessary moisture it needs. And all of our products are designed to help you achieve the skin of your dreams, regardless of triggers or external irritants.
