Hands - chapped and dry

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 lotion frequently (if this doesn't work, try creams or ointments)
• Avoid putting your hands in water unless necessary
• If your hands don't improve, contact a dermatologist
• Very strong hydrocortisone creams (available by prescription) are recommended for badly chapped hands
• Wear gloves for doing everyday chores (cotton is best)

For related information, see eczema and contact dermatitis.

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Chapped hands

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Chapped hands Prevention

Review Date: 10/28/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)