Hand eczema is not a separate type of eczema. Eczema on the hands is most often a type of eczema called atopic dermatitis. Sometimes hand eczema is caused by seborrheic eczema. Hand eczema can be red, inflamed skin with or without peeling, flaky dry skin. Hand eczema may cause more burning sensations than itchiness.

Cases of hand eczema are likely caused by handling an allergen. An allergen is a substance that causes a reaction from the immune system. In people with eczema, the immune system identifies harmless substances as a threat like it would to bacteria. The substance triggering the allergic reaction could be a food, chemical, soaps, detergents, or other substances.

It is not uncommon for people to develop hand eczema due to chemicals or substances they must handle in the workplace. People who know what is causing the eczema should avoid future contact with the substance. If they must handle the substance, they should use protective gloves.

Treatment for hand eczema includes moisturizing the dry skin on the hands and treating the inflammation. A doctor may prescribe a prescription strength corticosteroid cream. Oral corticosteroids or corticosteroid injections may also be used. To help reduce the itchiness, the doctor may suggest the use of antihistamines. The inflamed skin could easily become infected, especially if the person scratches and causes open sores. If an infection develops, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection.

Types of eczema often develop in people who have allergies, asthma, or hay fever. People who have family histories that include those ailments are also more prone to developing eczema. There are things a person can do to help prevent future outbreaks.

There is no cure for any type of eczema. Therefore, the focus is on treating current outbreaks and preventing future outbreaks. Someone with hand eczema or other types of eczema should maintain healthy skin. Moisturizing the skin is important for people with eczema. Harsh soaps and excessive bathing should be avoided. Hot water tends to dry out the skin. Someone with hand eczema should use lukewarm water when washing their hands and for bathing.

People with eczema should moisturize their skin after bathing and periodically throughout the day. Hand eczema can be a painful condition. In severe cases, the effected individual may have limited use of their hands without experiencing worse pain. If the condition fails to clear up with corticosteroid treatment, the doctor may prescribe another medication or prescribe the use of phototherapy with ultraviolet lights.