How to get rid of chilblains on hands
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, chilblains on the hands may be caused by poor hand circulation, weak skin resistance to cold, chilblains, Raynaud's syndrome, hypothyroidism, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medications, etc. Keep the hands clean and dry to promote healing of chilblains and maintain hand skin health.
Generally, chilblains on the hands may be caused by poor hand circulation, weak skin cold resistance, chilblains, Raynaud's syndrome, hypothyroidism, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other methods. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Poor hand circulation: The hands are located at the extremities of limbs, where blood vessels are relatively thin and blood flow is slow. Under low temperatures, vasoconstriction makes chilblains more likely. Daily measures include performing fist-clenching and finger-stretching exercises, soaking hands in warm water to promote circulation, wearing thick, warm gloves when going outdoors, and avoiding exposing hands to cold environments.
2. Weak skin cold resistance: Some individuals have a thinner stratum corneum and poor tolerance and regulation against low external temperatures, making them prone to frostbite and chilblains. Regular application of hand creams containing petroleum jelly can strengthen the skin barrier. Avoid frequent use of harsh cleansers to reduce skin damage.
3. Chilblains: Cold stimulation causes vasospasm and constriction in the hands, leading to tissue hypoxia, ischemia, and inflammation, manifesting as redness, swelling, itching, and even blisters. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as chilblain ointment, vitamin E cream, or compound heparin sodium allantoin gel. Avoid scratching during itching to prevent skin breakdown and infection.
4. Raynaud's syndrome: Paroxysmal spasm of small arteries in the hands after cold exposure obstructs blood flow, resulting in chilblains, often accompanied by pallor and cyanosis of fingers. Medications such as nifedipine sustained-release tablets, tolazoline hydrochloride tablets, or nicotinic acid tablets may be prescribed to dilate blood vessels. In severe cases, sympathectomy may be performed to improve hand circulation.
5. Hypothyroidism: Insufficient thyroid hormone secretion slows metabolism and reduces heat production, making hands prone to cold injury and chilblains, along with symptoms like fatigue and cold intolerance. Patients should take hormone-replacement medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or levothyroxine sodium capsules as prescribed to maintain normal metabolic function.
In daily life, pay attention to keeping hands warm and avoid sudden temperature changes. Increase intake of foods rich in protein and vitamins to enhance the body’s cold resistance. Keep hands clean and dry to promote resolution of chilblains and maintain healthy skin.
