What are the treatment options for hand eczema?

Hand eczema can cause dryness, redness, scaling, blisters, soreness, and painful cracks. Frequent washing, detergents, solvents, wet work, gloves, metals, or fragranced products may aggravate it. A clinician may ask about your work and hobbies and may consider contact allergy when the pattern is persistent or unusual.

Apply a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser often, especially after washing. [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) helps reduce water loss and supports the damaged barrier. Use lukewarm water, pat dry, and wear suitable protective gloves for wet or chemical tasks. A prescribed anti-inflammatory cream may settle an active flare; [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) should be used as directed. If eczema remains difficult to control, [Narrowband UVB Phototherapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/narrowband-uvb-phototherapy/) may be discussed.

Arrange medical review when cracks, pain, or itch limits work, sleep, or hand movement, or when treatment is not helping. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or rapidly worsening pain because broken skin can become infected.

Which products or tasks may be triggering my flare? How often should I apply moisturiser and the prescribed cream? Should I have contact allergy testing or consider light therapy if the eczema persists?