Dry, cracked hands

The hands are more exposed to the elements, often leading to red, dry, and cracked skin.  This can burn and be uncomfortable, especially if cuts open up (called fissures).  Here’s our dermatologists’ recommendations:

1.       Hand washing is always necessary, but try to moisturize after every wash.  Keep a moisturizer like Vanicream nearby and slather it on immediately after toweling off hands.

2.       Consider sleeping with Vaseline or Aquaphor on your hands.  You can cover with white cotton gloves.

3.       Avoid the use of alcohol-based sanitizers as much as possible, opt for good ‘ole soap and water.

4.       Turn down the temperature of your water.  Hot water melts our moisturizing skin lipids right off our skin.

5.        If cuts or fissures do occur, you can use superglue to seal them shut.

6.       If all of these measures do not seem to help, submit an online consultation for an Rx cream or ointment to help put out the fire more quickly.

Remember, our skin is our first line of defense against viral and bacterial infections.  It is important to treat dry skin and hand dermatitis to reduce risk of infection!