These Are the Consequences of Spending Too Much Time With Your Hands in Water

How to Protect Your Hands

A few simple habits can make a difference:

• Use lukewarm rather than very hot water.
• Choose a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser when possible.
• Dry your hands thoroughly, especially between the fingers.
• Apply a moisturizer after washing.
• Wear protective gloves when doing prolonged wet work or handling detergents.
• If wearing waterproof gloves for a long time, consider cotton glove liners to reduce sweating and irritation.

When Should You Get Help?

If your hands remain cracked, painful, swollen, very itchy, or inflamed despite reducing exposure and moisturizing, consider speaking with a healthcare professional or dermatologist. Persistent symptoms may have another cause, such as eczema or contact dermatitis.

The occasional wrinkled fingers after a bath aren’t usually a cause for concern. The bigger issue is repeated exposure that leaves your skin dry, irritated, or damaged.