Excessive Disinfectant Use Increases Hand Eczema

A dermatologist at Medical Park Ordu Hospital notes that hand eczema frequency has been steadily increasing during the pandemic period and offers guidance on prevention. Stating that hand eczema, also known as hand dermatitis, is commonly seen in the population, Dermatology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özlem Ekiz explained that during the pandemic, frequent hand washing to protect against coronavirus, along with increased use of hand sanitizers and cologne-type products, has led to a steady increase in hand eczema cases among patients.

Attention should be paid to triggering factors

Pointing out that hand eczema, also known as hand dermatitis, is quite common in the population, Assoc. Prof. Ekiz stated, "Hand eczema is a skin condition that frequently appears on the back of the hands, fingers and palms, characterized by itching, dryness, scaling, redness, fluid-filled blisters or weeping. Hand eczema develops as a result of excessive water contact, dry air, soap, detergent, chemical substances, latex gloves, personal care products and skin irritation following excessive contact with these substances. In treatment, identifying the underlying cause and avoiding contact with this factor is very important. Complete avoidance is sometimes difficult. Whatever the cause, successful treatment of eczema requires avoiding triggering factors and factors that can worsen the condition. Especially in patients with long-term illness, treatment may take even longer," he said.

Prefer solid soap over liquid soap

Assoc. Prof. Ekiz shared the following information on protecting against the effects of factors that trigger hand eczema: "Prolonged contact with water and soap causes loss of the skin's natural protective layer. During the coronavirus period, hand washing is very important. However, when washing our hands, we should clean them with lukewarm water using solid bar soaps or hand cleansers that match our skin's pH level and do not excessively dry our hands, or products that are noted to contain syndet in the packaging information."

Wash hands with lukewarm water

Assoc. Prof. Ekiz stated that washing hands with lukewarm water rather than hot or cold water would be more appropriate. "Especially the use of moisturizer is very important in treating and preventing hand eczema. Since frequent hand washing is necessary during the pandemic we are in, it would be beneficial to carry a moisturizer with you. Especially using appropriate moisturizers while hands are still damp would be the right approach," she said.

Remove accessories when working

Emphasizing the need to perform cleaning and dishwashing tasks using machines rather than by hand whenever possible, Assoc. Prof. Ekiz stated, "Removing rings during work will prevent irritating substances from accumulating under the rings. In fact, we recommend using what we call prophylactic-type gloves if possible. However, since prolonged use of gloves has other drawbacks, the duration should be kept short. When you have complaints such as itching and rashes on your hands, powdered latex gloves should not be used as they will increase the complaints. In conclusion, although eczema causes bothersome appearance, it is not a dangerous condition. It can be controlled with simple treatments. Understanding eczema symptoms well and consulting a doctor without delay is important," she said.   Source