Home remedies for eczema on hands and fingers

Finger and hand eczema may cause redness, scaling, itch, burning, thickened patches or splits around the joints and fingertips. Repeated exposure to water, soap, sanitiser, food, hair products, metals or chemicals can keep the skin inflamed. Atopic dermatitis is one cause, while irritant or allergic contact dermatitis can require a different approach. Persistent itch and [Dry Skin](/symptoms/dry-skin/) often occur together, but appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Clean hands with lukewarm water and a mild fragrance-free cleanser, then pat rather than rub. Apply a thick fragrance-free cream or ointment over the backs of hands, palms, fingers and around nails; repeat after washing and before bed. For household or workplace wet tasks, wear suitable protective gloves and take them off when finished so sweat does not sit against the skin. Avoid fragranced creams, harsh scrubbing, very hot water and picking flakes. Cover a small split with a clean dressing after moisturising around it, and change the dressing if damp. If prescribed treatment is needed, use it exactly as directed rather than substituting a kitchen remedy.

Arrange an assessment when the rash is recurrent, spreading, painful, disrupting sleep or making it hard to work. Get prompt care for pus, yellow [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/), increasing warmth, swelling, tenderness, fever or red streaks. Deep cracks, rapidly worsening inflammation or reduced finger movement also need timely review.

Could my soaps, gloves, metals or work materials be causing this? Do I need allergy testing? Which product should I use on splits? How long should I try the treatment, and what should I do if the rash worsens?