Handwashing and Dry Skin: What You Need to Know

 What You Need to Know About Dry Skin and Handwashing

Does handwashing cause skin to become dry? Take a look at what you need to know about this dermatological issue if your hands are sore or cracked.

Exactly how necessary is it to wash your hands?

Your skin is red, dry, and cracked. You may desire to quit bathing despite the discomfort this causes to your skin, but this is not a good option. Washing has a critical role even though hot water and soap might make hands dry. Handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent viral, bacterial, and other infections, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
You must keep up this habit even if handwashing-related dryness produces severe discomfort, irritability, or cracking/bleeding. You can, however, take measures to lessen the impact of dry skin.

Does Handwashing Cause Dry Skin?

Make sure there isn't another underlying problem before assuming the dry skin is the result of excessive handwashing. In most circumstances, washing your hands more frequently makes them drier. However, some people might also have eczema or allergies that make this problem worse. Consult your dermatologist about possible causes if you also experience redness, irritation, or flaking under other conditions.

How Can Dry Hands Be Treated?

By hydrating your hands, you can avoid the problems that washing brings about. You can lessen the affects with a moisturizing routine, provided the dermatologist hasn't identified an underlying skin disease (again, like eczema or an allergy).
Creams and lotions sold over the counter can increase moisture, soften your hands, and relieve minor dryness. Ask your dermatologist to suggest a moisturizer that will suit your requirements specifically.
The dermatologist could suggest a more potent moisturizer or ointment if your hands are excessively dry in order to prevent cracking and peeling. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) claims that lactic acid and urea-containing treatments can aid in the skin's ability to retain moisture. Despite the fact that these items could .These products may aid in the healing of dry hands, but they may aggravate eczema-related rashes or damaged skin.
The dermatologist may also prescribe a corticosteroid or an immune modulator drug in addition to over-the-counter moisturizers. These topical treatments not only calm the skin, but they also reduce swelling, irritation, or redness brought on by frequent handwashing.

Can Dry Hands Be Prevented?

Even while you shouldn't stop washing your hands, you can lessen the negative consequences of using water and soap. Reduce the heat to lessen the likelihood of dryness. To prevent the spread of disease, you do not need to wash your hands in scorching water. The CDC advises using warm or cold running water when washing.
The degree of dryness might also be influenced by the soap you use. A harsh cleanser might irritate, dry out, or worsen dermatological conditions already present in your skin. You can choose a non-drying or moisturizing cleansing product with the dermatologist's assistance.
Blot your hands dry after washing them. Although this won't stop dryness, it can lessen discomfort or abrasions. You can still use moisturizer to protect your skin even if your hands aren't dry or there isn't any obvious damage. A moisturizer cream can moisturize your hands as well as serve as a barrier against upcoming dryness.

What Should You Do If the Dryness Persists?

Using a hydrating cleanser and cool or warm water, you wash carefully. You dry your hands with a paper towel before applying cream. However, your hands remain brittle, parched, cracked, and dry. How can you help? The dermatologist is the first place to go if you haven't already, so start there. Your doctor can assess your dryness problem and make a treatment recommendation.