How is dyshidrosis treated at home?
For many people, effective treatment of dyshidrosis starts with an at-home skin care routine. Home care might include:
- Using warm water instead of hot water when washing your hands
- Soaking your hands and feet in cool water to improve symptoms
- Applying cool compresses 2 to 4 times each day, for up to 15 minutes each time, to reduce discomfort or itching
- Applying moisturizers frequently each day to improve dry skin
Your doctor may recommend medications such as topical corticosteroids or oral antihistamines. These antihistamines include fexofenadine (Allegra®) or cetirizine (Zyrtec®). These medications help reduce inflammation and itching.
What if home treatment isn’t enough for dyshidrosis?
Sometimes doctors recommend prescription-strength creams, like clobetasol. These treatments can reduce pain and itching.
In more severe cases, skin care routines and medications like antihistamines are not enough to control symptoms. If other treatments do not work, your doctor may recommend further treatment options, including:
- Systemwide corticosteroids: Sometimes, topical corticosteroids are not enough to relieve symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe an oral or injectable corticosteroid, such as prednisone (Deltasone®).
- System wide non-steroidal immune suppression : Long term use of oral steroids is not recommended. Medications such as methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil may be used in treating chronic disease.
- Phototherapy: Exposing your skin to UV light may improve symptoms. You may receive phototherapy treatments at your doctor’s office or at a hospital.
What should I expect after dyshidrosis treatment?
This condition usually disappears with treatment, but it may come back later. You may need to follow a specific skin care routine at home or continue using medication to reduce symptoms.