The skin of the hands is constantly exposed to environmental, chemical or physical factors, being an important defence barrier against external aggressions. It is said that hands are our business card, therefore they must be properly cared for, as they are prone to many diseases due to constant exposure.

Doctor Amalia Anghel, primary dermatology/venerology physician at Skin-Med, Centre of Excellence in Dermatology, helps us with some tips for proper hand care to maintain skin health. Don't forget, damaged skin is skin prone to superinfections, cracks being a gateway for a number of potentially pathogenic microorganisms!

1. For itching, stinging, burning, whether or not associated with skin lesions (xerosis, scaling, erythema, maceration), it is recommended to use a mild cleansing product that does not produce excessive foam and contains moisturising ingredients, to reduce the alteration of the hydrolipidic barrier that can occur with aggressive soaps, and to avoid using hot water.    

2. Don't forget to rinse your hands thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel or disposable paper towel!

3. Hand washing should be followed, as much as possible every time, by the application of a repairing cream, for example products containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin E, urea!

4. Avoid the use of alcohol-based disinfectants as much as possible - although they are effective for hand hygiene, it is preferable to use these gels/sprays only when soap and water are not available.

5. Prolonged use of gloves can lead to over-hydration of the top layer of the skin - the stratum corneum, which has the effect of maceration - the skin turns whitish, becomes soft, wrinkled, and erosions appear in the integument. Also, certain substances found in the composition of gloves (e.g. latex) can lead to contact dermatitis. It is recommended to avoid using gloves when it is not absolutely necessary!

6. If the phenomena do not improve with the simple use of a repairing cream or if they evolve into exudation, associated pain, intense erythema, sensation of local heat, it is advisable to seek the advice of your dermatologist. Depending on the specifics of the condition, he will recommend an adapted treatment (topical antibiotic, anti-inflammatory or other therapeutic substances, sometimes, depending on the severity, associated with oral therapy - antibiotic, antihistamines).

7. People suffering from chronic skin conditions of the hands (e.g. psoriasis, chronic eczema) may notice exacerbations of the lesions - it is important to consult a dermatologist at the first signs of aggravation in order to control the lesions effectively.

The skin at their level is constantly exposed to environmental, chemical or physical factors, being an important defence barrier against external aggressions. It is said that hands are our business card, therefore they must be properly cared for, as they are prone to many diseases due to constant exposure.