Hand sanitizer causing flare ups

BSF and talkhealth are teaming up to offer an online expert clinic on eczema. At talkhealth, we have always been dedicated to helping you to manage your eczema. Whether it's breaking free from the itch, scratch, itch cycle or queries about emollients, this expert clinic will give you the advice that you need to stay on top of irritated skin.

Sign in to post your questions.
Locked
2 posts
Carer Fred
Posts: 2
Joined: Tue Mar 06, 2012 11:40 am
Report Quote

by Carer Fred on Mon Nov 22, 2021 12:09 pm

Hand sanitizer causing flare ups

Any tips for hand eczema and using hand sanitizer – really makes my hands flares up – thanks!

Dr Derrick Phillips
Posts: 23
Joined: Mon Jun 21, 2021 10:42 am
Report Quote

by Dr Derrick Phillips on Thu Nov 25, 2021 12:57 pm

Re: Hand sanitizer causing flare ups

Hi,

Eczema is characterised by an impaired skin barrier function, leading to increased water loss from the skin and dry, itchy, irritable skin. Alcohol based products and harsh detergent soaps will dry out the skin and make eczema worse. Avoid where possible!

Use emollient soap substitutes (e.g. Dermol 500 lotion) which will retain moisture whilst cleaning your hands. Moisturise immediately after hand washing (ointments and creams are preferable to lotions) and regularly throughout the day. Try to use preservative free and fragrance free products where possible.

Remember, eczema is an inflammatory skin condition and flare ups may require treatment with a topical steroid of appropriate strength. See your doctor if your symptoms fail to improve with the above measures and adequate topical steroid treatment. Patch testing may be required to exclude a contact allergic dermatitis.

Locked
2 posts