I've had this red patch at the base between two fingers for a few days. Eew. What the heck is that? I've never had anything like that before. Is it eczema? What do you do about it? Cortisone creme?
It could be eczema caused by irritation such as rings or detergent. I doubt that it's systemic eczema. That would cover more parts of your skin. Cortisone cream should help it to heal. And try to find out what the irritant is.
Or it could be chapped skin. Have you been out in the cold with your hands wet? Emollient cream would help if this is the cause.
Could be a form of dermatitis - cortisone cream will help that. If it's between 2 fingers, it could be more of a fungus, like athlete's foot between the toes. An antifungal cream would work for that. But there's usually less moisture between the fingers - not like toes encased in socks and shoes. Is it itchy?
Easiest thing is to stop by the pharmacy and get an experienced pharmacist to make a suggestion of an over-the-counter product.
Eczema is possible but I'd start with something simple first. Eczema is usually covering a greater area.
Cortisone cream should clear it up but if it's eczema it will come back. Eczema is systemic so it's coming from the inside out. Your diet is very important, specifically not eating pesticides and other synthetic chemicals that are loaded in a lot of our food. Another thing about cortisone is it thins your bones just like a shot or oral steroids. The facts that I have read are consistent in saying that topical steroid cream does as much damage to your bones as the damage done going through menopause....that's a scary thought.
There are some creams you can use short term that will help. I usually recommend a lotion called Renew. Some people make their own out of olive or grapeseed oil.
Hope this helps.
M.
Could be - if it is, hydrocortisone cream will clear it up almost immediately (within 24-48 hours, and you'll notice immediate improvement). I have eczema issues, and for me it presents itself almost as a scab that just will. not. heal.
There is something called Non Specific Dermatitis, which just means they don't know what caused it but your skin is irritated by something. OTC 1% hydro-cortisone usually clears up minor skin issues like this. If it comes back in the same place, then I would check with a doctor.
Rose:
if it just started for the winter - it could be dry skin or an allergic reaction to soaps, cleaners or a detergent.
Eczema is a scaly rash usually with EXTREME or intense itching. Sometimes you get blisters (yuck!) and to clarify - it's a SCALY rash (like a fish almost).
If it persists? Make an appointment with a dermatologist. They will be able to test between eczema, psoriasis or just an allergic reaction.
Hope it's just an allergic reaction!
