Alternative Names

Hands - chapped and dry

Information

To prevent chapped hands:

• Avoid excessive sun exposure or exposure to extreme cold or wind.
• Avoid washing hands with hot water.
• Limit hand washing as much as possible while maintaining good hygiene.
• Try to keep the air in your home humid.
• Use mild soaps or non-soap cleansers.
• Use moisturizing lotions on your hands regularly, especially if you live in a dry climate.

To soothe chapped and sore hands:

• Apply skin moisturizing lotion frequently (if this does not work, try creams or ointments).
• Avoid putting your hands in water unless necessary.
• If your hands do not improve, contact your health care provider.
• Very strong hydrocortisone creams (available by prescription) are recommended for badly chapped hands.
• Wear gloves for doing everyday chores (cotton is best).

References

Dinulos JGH. Eczema and hand dermatitis. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 3.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Eczema, atopic dermatitis, and noninfectious immunodeficiency disorders. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach, MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 5.