There are all sorts of rashes that one can get on the body. If you have developed a rash on your hands you may be wondering what has caused it. Most rashes that develop on only one part of the body mean that you have come into contact with something that you are allergic to. This is referred to as Contact Dermatitis. If you have a rash on only your hands then most likely you have touched or held something in your hands that did not come into contact with the rest of your body. It is very uncommon for a rash to appear on only the hands unless it was the only body part that came into contact with an allergen. Another reason for a rash on the hands is psoriasis, although psoriasis often affects other parts of the body at the same time.

Some typical things that may have caused an allergic reaction on the hands can be poison ivy, dish detergent, lotion, hand soap, acid, spicy peppers, citrus foods, potatoes, tomatoes, cleaners, latex, rubber, metals, and jewelry. Another cause for rash is over washing and extremely dry skin. Also a heat rash may be the cause if you have been wearing gloves for an extended period of time. This would cause excessive sweating and a heat rash could develop.

Once you notice the rash appear, it is important to re-trace your steps and try to remember what you may have come into contact with. The rash could be caused by something that you have never been allergic to before, but now after many years, have developed an allergic reaction too. Think of all possible causes.

In order to prevent a hand rash you must first eliminate the allergen. Only after that has been determined will you be safe from further episodes. In order to treat an existing hand rash you should avoid over washing. Also avoid irritants such as strong soaps or lotions. You can use creams such as hydrocortisone for itching and calamine lotion to help the healing process. If your rash is severe and you have blisters that have formed, it may be necessary to seek medical attention. Your doctor may need to prescribe some medications to help clear up the rash quicker as well as stronger anti-itch medications. Although your rash may itch, you need to avoid scratching. Scratching can cause the skin to break and a secondary infection is likely to set in.

If the rash is caused by severely dry skin, you should coat the skin with petroleum jelly then place cotton gloves over the hands. The best time to
do this is at night while you sleep. This way, your gloves stay clean and
are not a nuisance to your everyday living.

There are a few viruses that can cause rashes on the hands, such as scabies, ringworm and hand- foot and mouth disease. These conditions should be seen by a physician since they are contagious and may need medical treatment. If you have a rash that persists longer than 2-3 days, you should call your doctor to be evaluated.