Health Tip: Help Prevent Hand Eczema

Hand eczema is characterized by itchy, red, dry and tender hands. It may surprise you to learn that "dishpan hands" are a form of hand eczema.

The National Eczema Association suggests how to prevent or minimize symptoms of hand eczema:

• If symptoms are flaring, keep your hands as dry as possible.
• When washing hands, use a gentle, perfume-free cleanser and a little lukewarm water. Gently blot them dry and quickly apply a moisturizer.
• Don't use a hand sanitizer when hand eczema is flaring.
• Protect your hands with gloves when working with food or water.
• Wear cotton gloves while doing chores around the house.
• Don't wear rings while doing housework or washing hands.
• Ask someone else to shampoo your hair. Or use waterproof gloves.