What should I do if my hands start peeling after taking traditional Chinese medicine?

After consuming traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), if localized skin peeling and itching occur on the hands, possible causes include: 1) drug allergy; 2) local irritation; or 3) eczema.

1. Drug allergy: This refers to an adverse bodily reaction triggered by the medication. Immediately discontinue the TCM and seek medical evaluation at a hospital to determine whether an allergic reaction is responsible.

2. Local irritation: If diagnostic evaluation rules out a drug-related cause, the symptoms may result from contact with irritants in daily life—such as laundry detergent—or consumption of irritating foods. During this period, avoid smoking, alcohol, strong tea, coffee, and other known irritants.

3. Eczema: Hand eczema can cause localized dehydration and subsequent skin peeling. Consult your physician for a reassessment and targeted prescription therapy.

Maintain hand hygiene and minimize water exposure. When washing hands, use warm (not hot) water. Consume ample vegetables rich in vitamins; raw vegetables are preferable when feasible, as they retain the highest nutritional value. Vitamin B2 supplementation may be beneficial as adjunctive support. Even after visible peeling begins to resolve, continue applying prescribed topical medications consistently. Once fully healed, adopt preventive skincare measures to reduce the risk of recurrence.