What causes sudden dryness and roughness on the back of the hand, and what should be done about it?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, sudden dryness and roughness on the back of the hand may be caused by dry climate leading to moisture loss, frequent exposure to irritants, hand eczema, tinea manuum (fungal infection), palmoplantar keratoderma, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other treatments. In daily diet, increase intake of foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots and animal liver.
Generally, sudden dryness and roughness on the back of the hand may be caused by factors such as dry climate leading to moisture loss, frequent contact with irritants, hand eczema, tinea manuum (fungal infection), or palmoplantar keratoderma. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general care, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Dry climate and moisture loss: During autumn and winter, low air humidity causes rapid evaporation of moisture from the skin on the back of the hand, resulting in dry, tight stratum corneum that becomes rough and scaly. After washing hands with warm water each day, immediately apply a hand cream containing glycerin. Wear cotton gloves when going outdoors to reduce moisture loss and protect the back of the hand from cold winds.
2. Frequent contact with irritants: Long-term exposure to chemicals such as detergents and disinfectants can damage the skin barrier on the back of the hand, reducing sebum secretion and causing dry, rough skin. Wear waterproof gloves when doing housework or handling chemicals, use a gentle, soap-free cleanser for handwashing, and promptly apply urea-vitamin E cream afterward to repair the skin barrier.
3. Hand eczema: Inflammation triggered by allergies or external irritants can cause redness, papules, dryness, and itching on the back of the hand. Avoid scratching and stay away from allergens such as pollen and metals. Follow medical advice to use topical medications like hydrocortisone butyrate cream, desonide cream, or mometasone furoate cream, and keep the back of the hand clean and dry.
4. Tinea manuum (hand fungus): A fungal infection of the skin on the back of the hand. Initially presents with blisters, which after drying lead to scaling, gradually making the skin rough and thickened. Change socks frequently and keep hands dry; avoid sharing towels with others. Follow medical advice to use antifungal creams such as ketoconazole, miconazole, or clotrimazole to prevent fungal spread.
5. Palmoplantar keratoderma: Genetic or metabolic abnormalities cause excessive thickening of the stratum corneum on the back of the hand, resulting in rough, hard skin that tends to crack in winter. Avoid washing with hot water. Under medical guidance, use keratolytic agents such as tretinoin cream, urea ointment, or salicylic acid ointment to soften thickened skin. In severe cases, laser therapy may be used to remove excess keratinized tissue.
In daily life, increase dietary intake of vitamin A-rich foods such as carrots and animal liver. Avoid repeatedly picking at dead skin on the back of the hand to prevent skin damage and potential infection. Regular skincare routines can help restore smooth and soft skin.
