Skin Rashes on Hands

The word ‘rash’ in itself does not actually refer to some specific disease or any disorder. It is in fact a general term, which means an outbreak of bumps on the body, due to which there is a change in the way the skin looks and feels. Depending on the kind of rashes, they can either be localized or can spread to different parts of the body. These rashes can be divided into categories, namely scaly patches of skin caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, scaly patches of skin caused by irritant or allergens.

Causes of Skin Rashes on Hands
Skin rashes on hands and feet can be caused due to a number of reasons. The cause of a skin rash is determined from the characteristics it displays and other symptoms. Inflammation of the skin is referred to as dermatitis or simply skin rash. The rash on the hand is called as skin dermatitis or hand eczema. Skin rashes on hands are usually caused when the person comes in contact with a certain thing, to which a person is allergic to. The common allergens or irritants are

• Chemicals present in rubber, elastic or latex products.
• Certain ingredients in soaps, detergents and cosmetics.
• Chemicals, solvents and dyes used in various industries
• Some metals can also give rise to skin rashes.
• Trees and plants like poison ivy, poison oak, certain kinds of grass, etc.

The rash can by caused as an effect of psoriasis, shingles (chickenpox causing virus) and insect bites. There are some diseases, which can cause rashes as well. Professionals who come in frequent contact with wet or irritating substances, like cleaning fluids, different kinds of chemicals and metals or who wash their hands frequently are the ones who suffer from this condition often. Certain substances present in these irritants cause the breaking down of the natural barrier of protection, which causes skin rashes. Read about common skin rashes.

Symptoms of Skin Rashes on Hands
Itchy rash ranging from mild to severe in intensity, sometimes shows swelling and blistering, which are the most common symptoms of skin rashes on hands. Often, extreme itching causes sores, which then results in bacterial infections. If the skin rashes are caused by a fungal infection, itchy blisters along the sides of fingers is a common symptom. Dermatitis caused due to irritants or allergens is seen on the top of the hand. The skin on top of the hands appears dry and chapped, especially around the knuckles and on top of fingers. When the irritant is a metal, it gives rise to irritation under the ring. If the skin rash is caused due to poisonous plants, it causes blistering and weeping of rash.

Treating of Skin Rashes on Hands
To treat skin rashes on hands and arms, the first and foremost step, you should undertake, is to find out what is that which irritates your skin. In other words, find the irritant or allergen. Once you have found the irritant, make sure that you do not come in contact with it. You will have to visit your health care professional to get the right treatment for your skin rashes on hands. More often than not, your physician will prescribe over the counter available topical application ointments. These ointments will help in relieving you of itching and irritation. If the topical application does not help, the physician may have to prescribe antihistamines or oral corticosteriods. If the skin rash is caused by a bacteria, you will have to undergo a dose of antibiotics. You may want to know more about the natural remedies to cure skin rash.

It is advisable not to scratch or scrub your skin. Use gentle cleansers instead of soaps to wash your hands. Do not use cosmetics directly on the skin rash. In case you are using a new cosmetic, remove it from your daily use, as there are chances of it aggravating the condition. Do not cover the area affected with skin rashes. Leave the area exposed to air as much as possible, and make use calamine to soothe the skin. Know more on skin care.

Some tips to avoid any such further skin rashes on hands are to avoid the allergens as far as possible. In case you do come in contact with the allergens like poisonous plants, etc. make sure you wash your hands well with soap and water. If you come in frequent contact with water, chemicals, cold or friction, wear the right kind of gloves to protect your hands.