Stop the scratch/itch cycle
Like many people with hand eczema, you may scratch and rub your hands to get relief. This can damage the skin even more, leaving it open to infection, which in turn can create more itching and discomfort, and a greater severity of symptoms. There are things you can do to help break this cycle:
- Try to avoid sweating and overheating. These trigger itching
- If you are wearing gloves for protection, take them off every 15-20 minutes to avoid excessive sweating
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity. A sharp rise in temperature can lead to sweating. A drop in humidity can make skin dry
- Use a cold compress on your hands when you have a desire to scratch. You can also apply moisturizer
- Keep your fingernails short so that if you do scratch, you are less likely to damage the skin
- If you scratch your hands while you sleep, wear cotton gloves in bed