During a national health emergency to prevent the spread of disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended frequent hand washing with soap and water and using hand sanitizer when handwashing is not feasible. While frequent handwashing is very important in preventing the spread of viral disease, it can often lead to hand irritation, dryness, and itching (dermatitis). Hand dermatitis is often caused by irritation from over-washing, which leads to dry, cracked, itchy skin. Other products and exposures that may cause hand dermatitis include triple antibiotic ointment (e.g. Neosporin), nickel sensitivity, latex sensitivity, or allergy to ingredients in certain moisturizers.
There are steps you can take to prevent the occurrence of hand dermatitis including washing hands with a gentle cleanser such as CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser or Vanicream bar soap. Avoid more harsh soaps such as antibacterial, fragranced, or industrial soaps. Always be sure to rinse hands thoroughly so residual soap does not get trapped beneath jewelry or on the skin.
If hand dermatitis develops, treatment is generally easy, safe, and effective. It is very important to apply a ceramide-containing hand moisturizer at least twice daily and after every handwashing. Over-the-counter examples include CeraVe cream and Aveeno Eczema Care. EltaMD So Silky Hand Crème is one good example of a physician-dispensed option; and there are prescription options available too. For more severe hand dermatitis, a prescription topical steroid may also be needed. If your hands are not responding to over-the-counter options, you should seek care from a board-certified dermatologist's office to discuss prescription options. Bravia Dermatology is offering Virtual Visits if you wish to avoid coming into the office to discuss.