bad eczema on hands

Hand eczema, or hand dermatitis describes any type of eczema that develops on the hands. It may cause itchy, dry, scaly patches of skin that crack and flakes. Eat more foods rich in essential fatty acids like omega 3-s, which help reduce inflammation and allergic reactions. Lifestyle modification and self care are the first line of defence. Use hand cleansers and moisturizers that are free of irritating ingredients and fragrances. Zinc helps your skin heal and it also helps your body make use of essential fatty acids. Alternatively, you can make a cup of the tea, soak a cloth in it, and use the cloth as a compress. To treat inflammation, topical corticosteroids are commonly used but use only when needed. Always use cotton gloves to protect your hands.

If you have been prescribe a cortisone cream, put it on at night and cover your hand with a really good barrier cream, anything with dimethicone and or microcrystalline wax. If you have something like Prevex in your area thats a good one.

Do this every night until you hands clear up. Once they clear up, monitor your skin for breakouts and treat them agressively to ensure it doesn't spread. 

Good luck!!!

Oxygen1

Stop using anything with modern chemicals in it on your hands, and use a natural soap (this does NOT mean Dove or similar detergent bars) for a couple of weeks and observe the difference. I think we can become hypersensitive to modern cleansers that invariably contain detergent and foaming agents and other strong chemicals. Make sure you never get anything with detergent on your hands for those two weeks (eg no washing up liquid, liquid soap from handbasin, shampoo in shower etc) and you may be very surprised at the results.