Personal cleaning habits are of great importance in order to prevent the spread of “Coronavirus”, a problem that concerns the whole world. The first and most important step to prevent coronavirus spread is to wash hands. Hands should be washed by rubbing with soap for at least 20 seconds. In environments and situations where handwashing is not possible, hand disinfectants can be used until the hands are washed. So, how innocent do you think disinfectants used to provide hand hygiene? Hand disinfectants, which have recently become a part of our lives, invite eczema in case of frequent use. Near East University Hospital, Skin and Venereal Diseases Specialist Dr. Serap Maden made warnings and suggestions to prevent the risk of eczema that we face while trying to provide hygiene.

Dr. Serap Maden; "Hand eczema shows itself with skin dryness, redness, flaking, blisters filled with fluid, cracking, itching and wound development."
Expressing that dryness, redness, flaking, fluid-filled blisters, cracking, itching and wound development are among the symptoms of eczema. Dr. Serap Maden pointed out that this risk increases due to the decrease of the moisture in the skin in cold weather. Stating that the hand eczema is seen more frequently in individuals prone to allergies, Dr. Serap Maden said that frequent water contact, soap, detergent, bleach, plastic gloves, chemicals and the use of certain cosmetic products trigger hand eczema.

Dr. Serap Maden; "Prefer products with known efficiency, approved and moisturizing features."
“Although washing hands frequently with soaps and cleaners, the use of disinfectants with alcohol causes deterioration of skin integrity and an increased sensitivity to allergens. This can lead to hand eczema.” , saying Dr. Serap Maden recommended that while buying disinfectants with a protective effect from viruses and containing a high content of alcohol (70% and above), products with known effectiveness, approved and moisturizing properties should be preferred.

Recommendations to prevent eczema
Dr. Serap Maden listed the things that should be considered while washing hands and to protect them from hand eczema; “Wash your hands with warm water that is not too hot and cold. When washing your hands, choose soaps with moisturizing ingredients that will not irritate the skin. Using soap instead of liquid soap will reduce the risk of eczema. Since the moisture underneath the jewelry increases the risk of eczema, remove your jewelry while washing your hands. After washing your hands, dry them immediately and moisten them with a moisturizing cream. Choose non-perfumed and paraben-free products in the selection of moisturizer.”