Xerosis, also known as dry skin, is a common problem, particularly in arid climates or extreme temperatures. Exposure to sun and wind can dry out your skin, making it rough to the touch and sometimes painfully itchy. Over-the-counter remedies can generally treat dry hands successfully, though extreme cases may necessitate consultation with a dermatologist.
Causes
Physiological causes of dry hand skin include genetics and hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause. More common causes include environmental factors. A person who regularly engages in cleaning without wearing gloves may suffer dry hands as a result of hot water or harsh cleansers. Your hands may become drier in the winter or summer, particularly if you spend a lot of time outside without wearing sunscreen or gloves to protect them.
Symptoms
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics website states that dry skin occurs most commonly on the arms, legs and hands. Symptoms of extreme dry skin may be caused by dermatitis or eczema, in which the skin turns dark brown or red, itches intensely and may crack or bleed from dehydration or scratching. According to MayoClinic.com, eczema most often arises in childhood but in rare cases may continue into or first appear in adulthood. Other symptoms of dry hand skin include flaking, scaling, a feeling of tightness and the appearance of paper-like lines and wrinkles.
Treatment
Healing dry hands may be as simple as using a thick lotion or hand repair cream. One home remedy is slathering petroleum jelly on your skin and covering your hands overnight with cotton gloves. Lotions containing lanolin, olive oil or aloe can be particularly soothing. Use a moisturizing soap and cool water to wash your hands without overdrying. Shower with a body wash formulated with shea or cocoa instead of regular bath soap. In extreme cases, your dermatologist can prescribe oral or topical antibiotics or corticosteroids.
Prevention/Solution
Take care when using cleansers or hot water and always wearing rubber gloves when you clean. Keep showers brief and lukewarm rather than soaking in a hot bath. Avoid antibacterial and antimicrobial soaps, which may be too harsh for washing your hands. Drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Considerations
Seeking appropriate treatment ultimately depends on identifying the cause of your dry skin. If common preventative measures don't work, use your persistent symptoms as a guide to your possible condition. A dermatologist can diagnose the cause of hands that crack, bleed and itch. Frequent colds or infections concurrent with excessive dry skin could be a sign of an autoimmune disorder requiring serious medical attention. Do not hesitate to consult a physician if home remedies have failed, particularly if you have other symptoms of ill health.
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