dry skin on hands

[clairehuelin]

i ha ve dry red scaly patches on my hands what could it be

[Dr Helen Webberley]

Dry skin, eczema, fungal infections and psoriasis are common skin conditions that can cause this. If simple moisturisers and creams such as Dactacort don't help then you should show your GP. Dr Webberley

[Julie Van Onselen]

I agree with Dr Helen, if you have a skin condition, it is important to see your GP for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, do use lots of emollients, several times a day. You should also stop using soap and use your emollient as a soap substitute, make sure it is a medical emollient and not fragranced. Your local pharmacist will be a good person to talk to for recommendations.

[Dr Anton Alexandroff]

Hello

I agree with my colleagues. Common conditions are eczema (dermatitis) and psoriasis. Try to use moisturises (emollients) a few times a day first and also wash with emollients. The greasier emollient - the more efficient they are, thus ointments are better that creams and lotions. Try emulsifying ointment (about £5 for 500 gm tub from supermarkets) but if it is too greasy try cetraben or diprobase cream or doublebase gel or oilatum or aveeno creams. You would have to use creams more often.
If it does not help see your GP or dermatologist.

I hope this is helpful.
With very best wishes,

Dr Anton Alexandroff CCT(Dermatol) FRCP(UK) FAAD FRSM
Consultant Dermatologist and Senior Lecturer
Member of British Association of Dermatologists
De Montfort University, Leicester Spire Hospital, Leicester Nuffield Health Hospital, Bedford BMI Manor Hospital
www.alexandroff.org.uk

[wendygreen]

Hi,

As well as using emollients as advised by other experts on the panel, you could try the following:

As the dry patches are on your hands that may indicate they are triggered by something your hands come into regular contact with - for example soap, washing up liquid, foam bath, household cleaner. Using an emollient instead of soap (as previously suggested) will help, but you could also try wearing protective rubber gloves (wear cotton ones underneath if you have a latex allergy) when cleaning/handling other possible irritants.

I hope this helps.

Wendy