Why do the backs of my hands suddenly become dry and rough, looking like elderly hands, and what should I do about it?

Generally, sudden dryness and roughness on the back of the hand resembling aged skin may be caused by environmental dehydration, frequent exposure to irritants, xerotic eczema, contact dermatitis, ichthyosis, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and follow a doctor's guidance for improvement through general care, medication, and other treatments. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Environmental Dehydration: In dry autumn and winter air or prolonged stays in air-conditioned rooms, the skin on the back of the hand rapidly loses moisture, leading to a rough stratum corneum. After washing hands with lukewarm water daily, immediately apply a hand cream containing glycerin. Wear cotton gloves outdoors to protect against wind, and use a humidifier indoors to maintain humidity between 40% and 60%.

2. Frequent Exposure to Irritants: Repeated contact with chemical substances such as dishwashing detergent or disinfectants can damage the skin barrier on the back of the hand. Wear rubber gloves when doing household chores to reduce direct exposure. Use a mild, soap-free hand wash after handwashing, and avoid excessive rubbing of the back of the hand.

3. Xerotic Eczema: Inflammation occurs due to impaired skin barrier, causing dryness, flaking, and mild itching on the back of the hand. Follow medical advice to apply topical medications such as urea-vitamin E ointment, compound lactic acid cream, or vitamin B6 ointment. Avoid washing with hot water and minimize skin irritation.

4. Contact Dermatitis: Allergens such as metal jewelry or skincare products come into contact with the back of the hand, triggering an immune response that results in dryness, roughness, and redness or swelling. Follow medical advice to take oral antihistamines such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine capsules, or ebastine tablets, and apply calamine lotion topically. Avoid known allergens.

5. Ichthyosis: A genetic disorder causing abnormal keratin metabolism, resulting in dry, rough, scaly skin on the back of the hand, which worsens in winter. Follow medical advice to apply topical agents such as tretinoin cream, tazarotene gel, or urea ointment to soften the scales. Keep bath water temperature below 37°C and avoid scrubbing the skin.

In daily life, increase intake of foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots and animal liver. Choose hand care products free of fragrances and alcohol. Before bedtime, generously apply hand cream and wear cotton gloves overnight. With consistent moisturizing and scientific skincare, the skin on the back of the hand can gradually recover its smoothness and softness.