A rash can occur on the back, front or between the fingers of a child's hands. Many conditions and factors can trigger it. A child's hands come into close contact with others, especially at home or in a childcare center. If the rash is contagious, it can easily be passed from child to child.
Possible Causes
Contact dermatitis can occur if your child directly handles an irritating substance such as poison ivy, jewelry, cosmetics or certain soaps. Hives, which can appear as a rash on the hands, can develop as the result of contact with an allergen such as peanuts or even from a common illness like the flu. Conditions such as chicken pox, hand eczema or a skin infection like scabies or impetigo can also trigger a rash on your child's hands.
Treatment
Wrap your child's hands in wet gauze or bandages to help ease any itching or redness. Apply an antibiotic ointment or a cream that contains hydrocortisone to the affected area. See a doctor if your child's rash is severe or does not go away after a few days. Skin infections will need to be treated with a prescription topical steroid cream, antibiotic pill or medicated ointment.
Prevention
Prevent hand rashes from reoccurring by keeping your child away from substances that trigger an allergic reaction. Have her wear vinyl gloves when she must touch a known allergen or something that has triggered a hand rash in the past. Teach your child to wash her hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom and before eating. Rub an emollient lotion into your child's hands regularly if she is susceptible to frequent hand rashes.
Considerations
Because hand rashes that are caused by viruses are easily transmittable, every household member must be treated to prevent reoccurrence. If you suspect scabies, which are tiny mites, wash all of your child's towels, bedding and clothing in very hot water. Seal up your child's stuffed animals in a plastic garbage bag for at least three days to kill any mites and thoroughly vacuum each room in your house.
