10 simple tips to tame eczema on your hands, even in winter!

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from eczema on your hands, you know how difficult it can be.

It’s not just about the itching, redness and cracked skin; it’s about the self-awareness that can come with it.

You may hide your hands in your pockets, avoid handshakes, or feel embarrassed at social events.

Let’s look at some practical steps you can take to manage this complex condition.

What is eczema on the hands?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, dryness and itching. It affects millions of people worldwide, making it one of the most common skin conditions.

Although eczema can affect any part of the body, the hands are particularly sensitive because they are constantly exposed to irritants such as soap, water and chemicals, and other environmental influences. Compared to other parts of the body, the hands have fewer oil glands, making the skin more susceptible to dryness.

Hand eczema often occurs due to triggers such as cold weather, frequent hand washing, contact with irritants and even stress. It is one of the most common types of eczema and can affect the palms but also other parts of the hands. The main symptoms are dry, itchy or red skin. The skin condition can sometimes be serious and lead to cracking, pain, swelling or blisters, and the skin may become flaky, dry and thickened.

10 Ways to Effectively Treat Eczema on Your Hands

Treating eczema on your hands can seem like an ongoing battle, but with the right strategies you can reduce flare-ups and protect your skin.

1. Moisturize regularly

Use a soothing, fragrance-free hand cream like our Body Repair Lotion to keep your skin hydrated. It is formulated with ingredients such as plant ceramides, aloe, glycerin and vitamin E, all of which have proven effects on replenishing natural lipids, hydrating and protecting the skin. It also contains oat extract and other natural anti-inflammatory ingredients to soothe itching and irritation caused by eczema.

Apply it immediately after washing your hands and before going to bed to retain moisture. If your palms are bothering you, try our Rescue & Relief Spray. It is oil-free, absorbs quickly and can provide immediate relief for itchy, dry skin on the hands and between the fingers. Keep a travel size handy throughout the day.

Then use our petroleum jelly/fragrance-free Restorative Skin Balm to lock in moisture, promote healing and help replenish and strengthen the skin barrier. Use it regularly throughout the day to strengthen the barrier function, prevent irritants from entering the skin and protect the skin from external damage. If you find it too greasy to use during the day, try it at night. After applying it, put on a pair of soft cotton gloves to increase the soothing effect.

2. Use gentle, unscented soaps

Many soaps contain harsh cleaning agents that can strip your skin of natural oils. Still, it’s best to wash your hands regularly, especially in winter during cold and flu season. The solution? Whenever possible, choose mild, fragrance-free cleansers to reduce irritation. Then take a travel bottle of our Body Repair Lotion with you so that you can apply it on the go after washing.

3. Wear protective gloves

Wear gloves to protect your hands from water and chemicals when doing household chores such as washing dishes or cleaning. Choose cotton-lined gloves to prevent the build-up of sweat, which can also irritate your skin.

4. Avoid hot water

Hot water can dry out your skin and worsen eczema symptoms. Instead, wash your hands with lukewarm water and then gently pat them dry with a soft towel if possible. Avoid air dryers as they are more drying to the skin.

5. Apply an occlusive barrier

During particularly harsh weather conditions or when your hands are exposed to irritants, apply a protective barrier of our Restorative Skin Balm to lock in moisture and protect your skin.

6. Use a humidifier

Dry indoor air, especially during the winter months, can worsen eczema. Using a humidifier, especially at night in your bedroom, can help maintain moisture levels so that the air is less likely to rob your skin of moisture.

7. Avoid common irritants

Identify and avoid substances that trigger your eczema. Common culprits include scented lotions, certain cleaning products, and latex gloves. Test new products before using them to make sure they are safe for your skin.

8. Stick to a regular hand care routine

Consistency is key when treating eczema. Develop a daily hand care routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturizing, wearing gloves when necessary and avoiding irritants. Over time, this can significantly reduce flare-ups.

9. Manage stress

Stress is a known trigger for eczema. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to keep flare-ups at bay.

10. Seek medical advice

If these treatments do not help, consult a dermatologist. Prescription treatments or phototherapy may help in severe cases.

Special tips for hand eczema in cold weather

Cold weather brings unique challenges to hand eczema. The cold, dry air strips moisture from the skin, while indoor heating can worsen dryness, making flare-ups more likely. Here are a few more tips to protect your skin:

• Layer your gloves: Wear thin cotton gloves under heavier winter gloves to prevent irritation while keeping your hands warm and protected.
• Hydrate at night: Apply a thick layer of our Restorative Skin Balm in the evening and cover your hands with cotton gloves before going to bed.
• Protect your hands outdoors: Wind and cold air can dry out your skin. Always wear gloves and reapply moisturizer after being outdoors.

Lifestyle tips to reduce hand eczema flare-ups

In addition to topical treatments, certain lifestyle adjustments can also help reduce flare-ups.

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet

Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts and flaxseed, which help reduce inflammation. Avoid processed foods, sugar and other known inflammatory triggers.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water supports overall skin health and combats dryness.

Wear breathable fabrics

Choose clothing made from cotton or other natural fibers to reduce irritation from sweat or rough materials.

Practice good sleep hygiene

Poor sleep can weaken the immune system and worsen eczema. Maintain a regular sleep routine and create a soothing bedtime environment.

Monitor environmental allergens

Dust, pollen, and pet dander can cause eczema in some people. Regular cleaning and air purifiers can reduce exposure.

Track your triggers

Keep a diary to record flare-ups and possible causes, such as food, environmental factors, or stress. This can help you identify patterns and avoid your triggers in the future.

You can reduce hand eczema flare-ups

Controlling hand eczema may seem difficult, but small, consistent changes can make a big difference. By adopting daily habits that protect and nourish your skin, you can reduce flare-ups and feel more confident about your hands. Every little effort contributes to healthier, happier skin.

Have you been able to reduce hand eczema flare-ups?

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