Managing dry and uncomfortable hands can be a hassle. However, if your hands are actively peeling, it introduces a new set of challenges and complications. Adding to the complexity, a variety of actions and conditions can contribute to peeling hands. But many causes are resulting in peeling hands, along with effective strategies to prevent it initially and ways to alleviate the issue.

What further to expect:-

What is skin peeling?
What are the causes of skin peeling on hand?
How to reduce skin peeling on hand?
Take Aways
FAQs

What is skin peeling?

Your skin peels when the outer layer, called the epidermis, naturally sheds. This peeling or flaking is your skin's mechanism for recovering and healing from various forms of damage, which can result from environmental factors, skin conditions, allergies, infections, diseases, or treatments. Desquamation is the medical term for peeling skin.

What are the causes of skin peeling on hand?

Cold weather

Low HumidityThe air is typically drier in colder months, and indoor heating systems can further lower humidity. Skin moisture loss can result from dehydration brought on by low humidity. When the skin becomes dry, it may start to peel.
Reduced Sebum Production: Cold temperatures can slow down the production of natural skin oils (sebum). These oils play a crucial role in maintaining the skin's moisture balance. With decreased sebum production, the skin is more prone to dryness and peeling.
Hot Water Exposure: In an attempt to warm up during cold weather, people often use hot water for washing hands. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and eventually peeling.

Eczema

Eczema causes skin peeling on hands through a combination of factors. The condition involves inflammation, dryness, and heightened sensitivity of the skin. Persistent itching leads to scratching, damaging the skin's protective barrier.

The compromised barrier allows moisture to escape, leading to dryness and peeling. In some cases, eczema can cause the formation of fluid-filled blisters that, when they rupture, contribute to further peeling.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis makes the skin on the hands grow too fast, creating thick, scaly patches. This makes the skin dry and peel. When the skin gets hurt or scratched, it can make more patches, causing even more peeling.

How to reduce skin peeling on hand?

Hyaluronic Acid

One important component of skin care products that helps to lessen peeling of the hand skin is hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is well-known for its remarkable capacity to hold onto moisture. It works by drawing and binding water molecules to the skin to improve hydration.

By locking in moisture, HA helps combat dryness, soothes the skin, and supports the restoration of a healthy skin barrier. Using hyaluronic acid-containing products on a regular basis can help create softer, more supple hands and lessen skin peeling.

Glycerin

Glycerin, a powerful humectant, attracts and retains moisture, making it effective in addressing skin peeling. By preventing dryness and supporting the skin's natural barrier, glycerin helps maintain hydration levels and soothe irritation. Look for products containing glycerin, like moisturisers, and apply them regularly to clean, dry hands for softer, well-hydrated skin

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a nourishing ingredient that can help alleviate skin peeling on hands. Shea butter provides a high level of moisture that keeps skin hydrated and prevents dryness because of its high fatty acid and vitamin content.

It has the property of having a protective barrier, supporting the skin's natural defences and aiding in skin repair. Regular application of shea butter can contribute to softer, more supple hands, reducing skin peeling on hands.

Licorice Extract

Irritated skin is soothed and calmed by licorice extract, which is well-known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It has ingredients like flavonoids and glycyrrhizin that may lessen the redness and swelling brought on by peeling.

Additionally, licorice extract has skin-brightening effects, contributing to a more even skin tone. Look for skincare products with licorice extract, such as creams or lotions, and incorporate them into your routine to nourish and soothe your hands, promoting healthier skin and minimizing peeling.

Aloe Vera

One natural treatment for peeling hands and skin is aloe vera. Well known for its calming properties, aloe vera lessens peeling-induced redness and irritation.

Aloe vera also has anti-inflammatory properties that help ease pain. Apply aloe vera gel directly to clean, and dry hands, or choose skincare products containing aloe vera for a cooling and calming effect, aiding in the prevention and relief of skin peeling.

Take Aways

If you notice peeling skin on your hands, it may be due to frequent exposure to environmental elements like extreme humidity levels or exposure to chemicals in household or workplace products. Moreover, it might indicate an underlying illness like psoriasis, or allergies. If the peeling is persistent, or severe, or the cause is uncertain, it is advisable to consult with your doctor or dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance on managing and treating the condition.

P.S.:- Always make sure to moisturize your hands with hydrating moisturizer especially the one with ceramide.

FAQs

Q. Is skin peeling on hands normal?

Ans. Occasional skin peeling on hands is normal and often results from factors like dryness, sunburn, or mild irritation. However, persistent or severe peeling may indicate underlying issues such as eczema, psoriasis, or fungal infections. Proper hydration, moisturizing, and protection from harsh elements can help prevent and alleviate mild peeling.

Q. Can stress cause skin peeling on hands?

Ans. Yes, stress can contribute to skin issues, including peeling on the hands. Stress can impair skin barrier function and weaken the immune system, which increases skin sensitivity to irritation. Stress-related behaviours like excessive hand washing or rubbing can also exacerbate peeling.

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