Chapped hands
Illustrations
Alternative names
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Hands - chapped and dry
Information
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To prevent chapped hands:
- Limit excessive hand washing as much as possible (while remaining sanitary).
- Avoid hot water.
- Try to keep the air in your home humid.
- Use moisturizing lotions on your hand regularly -- especially if you live in a dry climate.
- Use mild soaps -- preferably soap that contains some cream.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure or exposure to extreme cold or wind.
To soothe chapped and sore hands:
- Avoid putting your hands in water unless necessary.
- Apply skin lotion frequently (if this doesn't work, try creams or even ointments).
- Wear gloves for doing everyday chores (cotton is best).
- Hydrocortisone creams (available over the counter) are recommended for badly chapped hands.
- If your hands don't improve, contact a dermatologist. For related information also see eczema and contact dermatitis.
Update Date: 4/15/2003
Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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