Cleaning or disinfecting your hands from time to time to avoid COVID-19 infection could cause contact dermatitis. What must be done to avoid this problem? A specialist tells you.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, in which more than 532,000 infected people are registered worldwide, one of the main tips to avoid contagion is to keep your hands as clean as possible. Even the World Health Organization, has highlighted the importance of this hygienic measure to avoid getting and to avoid the spread of the virus. This entity recommends washing with soap and water frequently, however, in the absence of that possibility, many people have opted for the use of alcohol gel.
“Gel alcohol is very useful, however, nothing replaces hand washing with soap and water, as it is more effective. That action must last at least 30 seconds. The correct use of antibacterial gel consists of applying between 2 to 3 ml, which is equivalent to two shots from conventional dispensers ”, says dermatologist Nicolás Guevara Pinto.
Hand washing with soap and water is the most recommended to avoid contagion. Photo Pixabay
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The specialist states that both actions are effective in preventing the spread of coronavirus and other germs, however, practicing them repeatedly and constantly could have negative consequences, including causing a irritant contact dermatitis.
According to the Mayo Clinic, this type of dermatitis is a red, itchy rash that appears by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. The rash is not contagious or life threatening, but it can be very bothersome.
“The continuous use of alcohol gel makes the skin more sensitive and irritated. First there is an irritability phenomenon, where the skin turns red. Fissures may then develop, followed by possibly superinfection. Something similar occurs with soap, but it is less aggressive. In these cases, the ideal is to immediately suspend the use of the irritating product and use a restorative skin barrier cream, “says Dr. Guevara.
Antibacterial alcohol gel may remove the protective barrier of the skin. Photo Pixabay
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The specialist maintains that to avoid this dermatological problem the best is prevention. The doctor says that the first thing to do is avoid touching surfaces or people who may be sources of infection. It also suggests using neutral soaps, whose pH is between 3.5 and 5.5.
“It is best to use soaps without odors and without additives. Preferably syndet soaps, which contain a low pH, thus avoiding alteration of the skin’s protective barrier. This type of soaps are ideal for delicate and sensitive skin, “says Dr. Guevara.
When the hands show redness or cracks, the use of creams with active ingredients that promote wetting, among them glycerol, shea butter or lanolin. According to the dermatologist, it is preferable that they are odorless creams, since those that contain aroma can cause allergy pictures or cause more irritation.
“In severe cases, anti-inflammatory substances and topical corticosteroids are usually prescribed,” concludes the specialist.
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