Dry Hands

Dry hands are a common condition that many people come to accept as a normal occurrence.

Having dry skin on the hands does not cause any harm, but it can often be irritating and uncomfortable. Environmental factors are the most likely cause as the hands are frequently exposed to many products and soaps that contain harsh chemicals, as well as changing conditions of the weather.

Ageing is another factor to consider as the skin’s barriers weaken and moisture is lost. Dry hands can often be attributed to the many times that the hands are washed during the day. But more severe cases, where dry and chapped skin causes itching and cracks in the skin, may result from a medical condition.

Dry skin on the hands can vary from mild to severe dryness, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Mild dryness leads to patches of dry skin that can feel itchy, with a degree of redness, tightness and sensitivity. This instance most often sees the knuckles, wrist and backs of hands being affected.

When rough and itchy skin looks chapped and cracked, severe dryness could be the cause. This can also cause the skin to look scaly in appearance, with an increased chance of the skin becoming tight and prone to bleeding. Severe dryness and skin inflammation are more likely to result from a medical condition, such as eczema or dermatitis.

The hands are a valuable part of the body that are needed for a variety of everyday uses, so it is important they are well cared for. Preventative measures, such as keeping them covered when using harsh chemicals, applying a suitable SPF and regular moisturising, can help to retain a strong skin structure.

However, for more targeted intervention The Bloom Clinic can offer AlumierMD masks, chemical peels, Sunekos skin boosters and Dermalux LED that can deliver targeted treatment to the delicate skin on the hands producing a youthful, silky soft feel and improved appearance.