How to Treat Extremely Dry Hands

Having extremely dry hands can be painful and challenging. Sore, cracked skin makes it difficult to keep up with chores and other things we take for granted on a daily basis. If you notice your hands have become extremely dry, cracked, flaky or chalky, it may be a good time to take action before the dry skin condition gets worse. You may be able to treat your dry hands at home, but don't be afraid to reach out to a dermatologist if needed.

Things You'll Need

• Emollient moisturizer
• Rubber gloves
• Credit card
• Prescription medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Keeping your hands away from irritants can help improve your skin's condition.

  Limit exposure of your hands to water, cleaning chemicals and other irritants. Avoiding excessive exposure to these materials can improve your dry skin condition.

• 2

  Protect your hands from being overly exposed to water and other chemicals.

  Wear rubber gloves when exposing your hands to water or chemicals for a prolonged time. If you notice irritation to certain foods when cooking, wearing gloves to protect your skin can be appropriate in this case as well.

• 3

  Apply an emollient lotion or hand cream that contains lactic acid or urea.

• 4

  Sometimes seeing a doctor for a chronic issue like dry skin is the best plan of action.

  Make an appointment to see your doctor if your dry skin problem is not responding to home remedies. If your doctor orders a prescription, apply the products according to the directions given on the package or by the doctor and pharmacist.

• 5

  Monitor your dry skin until it improves or worsens. You may want to make a second doctor's appointment if your condition does not clear up within a reasonable time or if it gets worse.