advice from dermatologists against dry and irritated hands

It was the first recommendation at the start of the coronavirus epidemic in France. The instructions were clear: hands should be washed regularly, several times a day and after each contact with another surface, or another person. As a first barrier gesture, hand washing could damage them in the long run, especially among healthcare staff, and certain professionals who are forced to wash their hands and wear gloves all day long.

Thus, the French Society of Dermatology has posted advice online to preserve hands. We learn that the first danger is to develop “hand irritation dermatitis, which in addition to being
painful may hinder the application of ‘contact’ precautions “, including the application of hydroalcoholic gel.

First, dermatologists explain that it is not the use of the gel in itself which deteriorates the hands. However, using it on damaged hands is problematic. “These are mainly hand washes with water and soap, iterative
(more than 10 times a day), and the use of bare hand bio-cleaners, which irritate
hands”.

Dry thoroughly, limit wearing gloves

Dermatitis, which begins on the back of the hand, is manifested by redness, fine peeling, and a burning, “baking” and itching sensation. To keep hands in good condition, the Dermatology Society gives the procedure to follow. In the first place, it is asked to favor the hydroalcoholic gel to disinfect the hands.

Do not use gel and soap at the same time. You should also never use antiseptic soap. In case of irritated hands, you must “favor a surgras bread or a mild syndet instead of soap
 classic “.

Then make sure to use lukewarm water, wet your hands before applying
 a single dose of soap, rinse thoroughly and dry thoroughly by gently dabbing irritated skin. Then, wait until your hands are completely dry before putting on gloves, and do not wear them for more than 30 minutes.

Then, at home, dermatologists recommend “limiting, during this epidemic period, the activities of cleaning,
DIY or gardening, which could traumatize your hands “. You must also take care to” wear gloves when handling irritants “, as well as protect them from the cold. Finally, the use of emollient creams is recommended, before the manifestation of symptoms.