A new study finds the practice of washing hands during the coronavirus pandemic may have lead to a new epidemic of skin problems such as dermatitis. The study found people who wash their hands ten times a day or more were twice as likely to have skin problems such as eczema and other allergies. Researchers say the link appears to be due to dry skin or a problem with the natural protective bacteria on their skin being washed away.
The findings are explained by Dr Monisha Madhumita, of Father Muller Medical College, India: “This research truly demonstrates the impact of increased hand washing and uptake of alcohol-based rubs on the hand skin health of HCPs (Health Care Practitioners) and the general public”
Researchers noted that hand dermatitis is a common problem for young women and those with jobs that expose them to chemical like cleaning, catering, metalwork, hairdressing, labourers, and healthcare services.
What is Dermatitis?
Dermatitis is a term for various skin conditions caused by inflammation, itchiness, and irritation. Eczema is a type of dermatitis, but there are also many others – such as contact, stasis (in people who have poor circulation), seborrheic (in babies), and atopic eczema.
What Helps Dermatitis?
Dermatitis can be helped by avoiding irritants, such as detergents and other cleaning agents. Eczema, in particular, can often be alleviated by avoiding soaps with a high concentration of ‘detergent’ ingredients such as sodium laurel sulfate or using more natural products, especially those that moisturise the skin.
How can your Neath Pharmacy help me?
To find out more about choosing the best skin care for eczema or dermatitis BOOK NOW with our Wellness Pharmacists at either of our Neath Pharmacy branches for FREE NHS Advice & Treatments. You can avoid a visit to your GP and come straight for us for your common ailments, saving not only your GP’s time but also your own.
With the NHS common ailments scheme in Wales, pharmacists our can diagnose and provide treatment for 26 common ailments (including dermatitis and some skin conditions) free of charge.
