What should you know about hand rash?

Dry, itchy, cracked skin can occur with [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/), while a rash after soaps, detergents, gloves or chemicals may be [Contact Dermatitis](/conditions/contact-dermatitis/). Sweating and blocked ducts can contribute to [Heat Rash](/conditions/heat-rash/). A ring-shaped scaly edge may fit [Ringworm](/conditions/ringworm/), and itch that is worse at night with household spread can occur with [Scabies](/conditions/scabies/). Thick, sharply defined scaly areas may occur with [Psoriasis](/conditions/psoriasis/).

A rash appearing after a new medicine can be a [Drug Rash](/conditions/drug-eruption/). Moisture and friction in skin folds can cause [Intertrigo](/conditions/intertrigo/). These descriptions overlap, so a clinician may need to inspect the rash and ask about exposures, timing and other affected areas.

Wash with lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, then pat dry and moisturise frequently. Use protective gloves for cleaning or wet work, with a soft layer underneath if sweating causes irritation. Avoid scratching, fragranced products and any suspected new trigger until the cause is clearer.

Do not share towels, gloves or nail tools if infection is possible. Take a clear photograph and note when the rash began, what touched the skin, new medicines, and whether anyone else is itchy. Avoid using leftover steroid or antifungal creams without advice, because the wrong treatment can change the appearance.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, facial or mouth swelling, faintness, blistering, skin peeling, or a rapidly spreading rash after a medicine. Seek prompt review for fever, pus, severe pain, spreading warmth or redness, numbness, or a rash that does not settle with gentle care.

Ask whether the pattern needs a swab, scraping or patch testing, which products are safe, whether a medicine could be responsible, and how long to try the recommended treatment before returning.