What is the first treatment tried for hand eczema?

Hand eczema damages the skin barrier, allowing irritants such as soaps, detergents, solvents, and repeated water exposure to worsen dryness and cracking. Emollients replace some of the skin's surface oils and help reduce water loss. A topical corticosteroid may be prescribed for red, itchy, swollen, or thickened areas because it reduces inflammation. The exact product and strength depend on the appearance and location of the eczema.

Apply an emollient after washing and whenever the skin feels dry. Use lukewarm water, a gentle cleanser, and pat rather than rub. Wear suitable protective gloves for wet work, while allowing perspiration to escape where possible. Do not apply a topical corticosteroid more often or over a larger area than prescribed. If symptoms persist despite careful barrier care, a dermatologist may consider narrowband UVB phototherapy or another plan.

Arrange medical review for painful fissures, bleeding, pus, spreading warmth, or swelling, as these can signal infection or significant inflammation. Seek prompt care if hand eczema interferes with sleep, work, or basic tasks. A rash that repeatedly returns after contact with a particular product may need assessment for contact allergy rather than repeated self-treatment.

Ask which emollient texture suits your work, when to apply the prescribed steroid, and how to protect cracks while they heal. Ask whether an occupational or contact trigger is suspected and when narrowband UVB phototherapy would be considered.