As we continue our battle against COVID-19, handwashing is one of the most effective preventive strategies.
Both the above recommendations dry out the skin on the hands and in extreme cases lead to hand eczema and irritant contact dermatitis. Your hands become chapped, develop cracks and painful blisters too erupt. In extreme cases, such as in people with pre-existing hand eczema and psoriasis, the whole scenario is a disaster.
So, here are some pointers to help you protect yourself and answer your doubts:
1) Between soap/water and alcohol rub, which is better?
2) How do I protect myself against dryness and eczema?
3) Does applying a moisturiser bring down the efficacy of soap or alcohol rub?
No, it does not. In fact, by healing your skin the moisturiser gives you better protection against germs, which may otherwise enter through the cracked skin.
4) How do I choose my hand moisturiser?
Make sure you choose a moisturiser that is packed in a tube and avoid pump bottles. The ones that have colloidal oatmeal have added anti-inflammatory effects and can be used by those suffering from severe eczema.
5) How to prevent eczema/psoriasis from worsening due to frequent hand wash?
6) Can I use soap substitutes containing moisturiser to wash my hands instead of regular soap?
The British Association of Dermatology states that soap substitutes are less effective than regular soap to wash away germs. So, stick to regular soap & water wash.
Dr. Shwetha Rahul
Consultant Dermatologist,
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
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