Winter Can Rough Up Hands SaysNational Jewish Medical and Research Center Dermatology Expert

"The harsh winter weather can be especially harsh on your hands," says Noreen Nicol, MS, RN, FNP, Director of Nursing and Dermatology Nurse Practitioner at National Jewish Medical and Research Center. "Particularly during the winter months, cold weather, repeated washing and drying, plus exposure to contact irritants, often dries, itches, scales, cracks and fissures skin. Hands are vulnerable and it's important to take care of them."

Dry, scaly and itchy skin conditions are often contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis which require medical intervention. Dermatitis, otherwise known as eczema, is a rash with inflammation of the skin. Atopic dermatitis is inherited, and is more prevalent in people with allergies and asthma or sensitive skin but can occur in anyone. Contact dermatitis occurs from repeated and prolonged exposure to irritants or allergens. Dermatitis of the hands can be triggered by a variety of factors including exposure to irritants like soaps, detergents, fragrances, raw foods or solvents; temperature or humidity changes; or allergens like chemicals found in plants, metals or many other products.

So what can be done to prevent and control dermatitis? "Become more aware of what is good and bad for your hands," Nicol says. Specifically, she makes these recommendations:

• Avoid frequent wetting and drying of your hands whenever possible.
  Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser followed immediately by patting the skin dry and sealing with a gentle moisturizing cream.
• Use a cream to moisturize every time your hands feel dry, after washing or at least four times daily to replace lost moisture. Creams are more moisturizing than lotions.
• For extra protection remember to "Dirty your gloves, not your hands". Wear latex-free and powder-free gloves to avoid irritants such as water, solvents, and chemicals. Ordinary rubber gloves contain latex, powder and chemicals, all of which can cause hand eczema flare-ups.  "Eczema is a chronic condition, and requires adherence to a comprehensive hand care regimen," Nicol says. "Severe dermatitis can take several weeks or months to clear up. Your hands will remain susceptible. Unless you take the necessary precautions to treat your hand dermatitis, it can recur."

Ask your allergist or dermatologist if patch testing is needed to pinpoint the exact cause of the dermatitis.

EDITOR'S NOTE: A patient should consult his or her personal physician before changing or considering any medical treatments.