16 May 2024 , 08:30
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An incredibly itchy rash on your hands and feet can be a real pain, particularly at this time of year.
When the irritation turns into clusters of tiny fluid-filled blisters that appear red and inflamed, many fear an infection. Yet, a skin specialist assures us there's no need to worry, since there's a simple solution for relief.
Dr Shayan is a US-based cosmetic dermatologist renowned for his insightful videos on social media sharing medical knowledge. His recent video has already amassed over 217,000 likes, as he demystifies the rash known as dyshidrotic eczema.
This condition manifests itself as tiny blisters along the edges of one's fingers, toes, palms, and foot soles. Its cause remains unclear but it seems to be linked to stress, moist hands and feet, or allergies – which is why it's particularly prevalent at this juncture of the year.
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If you get small, itchy blisters at this time of year, you could have this common skin problem (stock image) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)As the Doc explains: "This is not a skin infection. These are little bubbles. On the sides of the hands are the same process. People can also get it on the sides of their feet.
"During this season, scores of individuals will notice these tiny, itching bubbles cropping up on the sides of their fingers, hands or feet and become concerned it's a skin infection. However, this condition is actually a type of eczema known as dyshidrotic eczema."
Thankfully, treatment is quite straightforward. He further explained: "Slathering the hands at night with a thick, occlusive ointment like these can be really helpful. It works even better if you lock in that moisture with white cotton gloves like these, or if you're doing it on your feet with white cotton socks.
"Avoiding products that you might have a skin allergy to can also prevent some of these flares." But if it doesn't clear up, you should speak to your GP as you may need a steroid cream.
TikTok users were left gobsmacked by the clip as many people have struggled with the condition on and off for years without any answers. One user expressed: "It's so nice to finally know what is wrong with my hands. It is SO unbearably itchy."
Another chimed in: "I had this on my hands during the pandemic. Super itchy and hasn't returned," while a third remarked: "I thought its bc of the heat, it happens to me every once or twice a year."
Meanwhile, someone else wrote: "I had this years ago and doctors had no idea what it was. I would scratch til they bled!"