hand alergies

[Martii11]

I jst graduated a six month course on skin care and nial technician. During that time, after using the chemicals that creat acrylic nails, my hands, fingers, broke out in these little bumps. When the bumps opened up they spread. Almost like poison ivy. THis has been ging on for about 3-4 months. My hands are very sore and using all the time. I have tried every ointment I could bye over the counter.Can you please help me.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
I cannot confirm a diagnosis without examination,but it can be contact dermatitis. Irritant dermatitis, the most common type of contact dermatitis, involves inflammation resulting from contact with acids, alkaline materials such as soaps and detergents, cosmetics, or other chemicals.

Avoid using any lotions and creams for the meantime. Wash your hands with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Pat it dry. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves.If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort.Also try to do the household work by wearing cotton gloves. You can also take oral anti inflammatory medicines like Ibuprofen or Diclofenac.

If the irritation persists then pls get it evaluated from a dermatologist.Oral steroids may be needed.
I hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.

[jagesh50]

In India yes,you would improve right away.

[Martii11]

thank you. Are these over the counter meds ? About when can I see an improvement?

[jagesh50]

This is an occupational hazard.Use a barrier creme containing zinc oxide in the morning and betnovate at night