What should you know about dyshidrotic eczema from heat?

Dyshidrotic eczema causes itchy blisters on the palms, sides of the fingers, or soles. Hot weather, exercise, warm work areas, and occlusive gloves or shoes can increase sweating and moisture against the skin. That combination may intensify itch or make a flare harder to settle. Heat is not the only possible trigger, and a rash that appears during warm weather may still be caused by contact dermatitis, fungal infection, or another condition.

Notice whether symptoms follow sweating, a particular workplace, footwear, glove material, or a seasonal change. The timing and exact locations can help a clinician separate heat-related aggravation from a different rash.

Move to a cooler environment when possible, take breaks during strenuous activity, and rinse sweat away with lukewarm water before gently drying. Choose breathable footwear and socks, change damp clothing, and use gloves suited to the task with breaks to reduce trapped moisture. Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser after washing, but avoid heavy occlusion over sweaty skin. Do not scratch or burst blisters. If inflammation is active, a dermatologist may recommend [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/). Recurrent difficult flares may prompt discussion of [Narrowband UVB Phototherapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/narrowband-uvb-phototherapy/).

Arrange a review if flares repeatedly follow heat, interfere with sleep or activity, or do not settle with careful cooling and skin care. Seek prompt assessment for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, yellow crusting, fever, or rapidly increasing pain. New widespread blisters need timely medical attention. Read more about [Dyshidrotic Eczema](/conditions/dyshidrotic-eczema/) and [Itchy Feet](/symptoms/foot-itching/).

Ask whether heat is aggravating eczema or whether sweat, footwear, gloves, or another exposure is responsible. Ask how to combine cooling with prescribed treatment, which moisturiser works in humid conditions, and how to prevent work or exercise from triggering another flare.