Eczema & Dermatitis
Hand Dermatitis / Pompholyx
Hand eczema; dyshidrotic eczema
Very common, especially with wet work
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Manageable; flares can be well controlled
What Is It?
Hand dermatitis is a red, dry, itchy, sometimes cracked rash on the hands. Pompholyx (dyshidrotic eczema) is a form with small, deep, intensely itchy blisters on the palms, sides of the fingers, and soles. Both flare and settle, often tied to irritants or stress.
Signs & Symptoms
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Red, dry, scaly, or cracked skin on the hands
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Itching or burning, sometimes painful fissures
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Small, deep, itchy blisters (in pompholyx)
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Peeling after blisters dry up
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Flares with irritants, sweating, or stress
Why Does It Happen?
It results from a mix of a sensitive skin barrier and exposure to irritants (water, soaps, chemicals) or allergens. Frequent hand-washing, wet work, and contact with harsh products are common triggers. Stress and sweating can trigger pompholyx blisters. It is NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
Treatment repairs the skin barrier, calms inflammation, and removes triggers. Consistent moisturizing and protection are just as important as medication.
MOISTURIZERS
Frequent, thick, fragrance-free emollients — the foundation of care.
TOPICAL STEROIDS
Calm redness, itch, and blisters during flares.
BARRIER PROTECTION
Gloves and avoiding irritants protect healing skin.
STRONGER OPTIONS
Calcineurin inhibitors, light therapy, or systemic care for severe cases.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Moisturize hands many times a day, especially after washing
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Wear gloves for wet or chemical work (cotton under vinyl)
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Use lukewarm water and gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
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Identify and avoid personal triggers; manage stress
When to Call Your Provider
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Cracks become painful, or skin oozes or crusts (infection)
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The rash spreads or doesn't improve with treatment
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Blisters are severe or interfere with work or sleep
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You suspect a workplace or product allergy (patch testing)
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Hand Eczema: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/hand-eczema
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Eczema. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/eczema/
DermNet. Pompholyx (Dyshidrotic Eczema). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/pompholyx
DermNet. Hand Dermatitis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/hand-dermatitis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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