(NC) If you work in healthcare, food service or cleaning, where frequent handwashing and exposure to irritants are common, chances are you have a higher risk of a skin condition, like eczema.

Chronic hand eczema (CHE) is characterized by red, itchy and painful skin on the hands. It can be debilitating for professionals like Amy Wright, who's a nurse practitioner, researcher and mother.

“While working as a nurse practitioner in the NICU, I have to carry around special hand soap,” she explains. “I need to have it on me at all times because of how many times I wash my hands in a shift. Thankfully, I can use the alcohol wash my hospital provides without too much of a reaction, but I need to use special soap when my hands become soiled.”

CHE also impacts other professions requiring frequent handwashing or exposure to solvents and chemicals, such as cleaners and hairdressers. These workers often face a vicious cycle of irritation and discomfort, leading to sleepless nights, increased stress and even time off work. In fact, a recent survey reveals a quarter of people with chronic hand eczema have reduced their working hours or missed work due to their condition.

That’s why it’s important for employers and healthcare providers to take proactive measures to support affected workers. Providing access to fragrance-free cleansers, moisturizers and protective gloves can help with symptoms. Offering educational programs on proper hand care can also make a significant difference.

If you think you may have chronic hand eczema, seeking medical advice and adhering to a skincare schedule that works well for you is crucial. Dermatologists can recommend treatments such as topical steroids, emollients and barrier creams to manage the condition.