Pompholyx on palms and soles: home remedies to ease the itching and blisters

Sudden, intense itching on the palms or soles, followed by tiny water-like blisters — in medical terms this is pompholyx, or dyshidrotic eczema. The condition is as uncomfortable as it is painful.

Changes in weather, excessive mental stress, the use of detergents or chemicals, or an allergy can make the condition flare up severely.

If such symptoms appear, consulting a doctor is the most important step. In the early stage, however, some natural ingredients found at home work wonderfully to reduce the intense itching and burning and to keep the skin moisturised.

The most irritating aspect of pompholyx is its intense itching. A cold compress gives quick relief from it. Soak a clean, soft cotton cloth in ice-cold water, wring out the excess water, and hold it on the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. Doing this several times a day soothes the burning inside the blisters and helps them dry up faster.

Oatmeal has been used for ages to reduce itching and inflammation of the skin. Grind plain oatmeal into a powder in a blender, then mix the powder well into a basin of lukewarm water. Soak the affected hand or foot in that water for 10 to 15 minutes. The natural anti-inflammatory ingredients in oatmeal protect the skin and reduce itching.

Skin affected by eczema dries out very quickly, which makes the itching worse. As a moisturiser, pure or virgin coconut oil is a blessing for pompholyx. Its antibacterial and moisturising ingredients keep the skin hydrated and greatly reduce the risk of infection if a blister bursts. After washing your hands and feet, gently massage in a little coconut oil each time.

The cooling effect of aloe vera quickly removes the heat and burning inside the skin caused by pompholyx blisters. Take fresh gel from the leaf and apply it directly to the affected area. Avoid scented or alcohol-mixed aloe vera gel bought from the market, as these can make the skin rougher and drier.

Apple cider vinegar can help maintain the skin’s natural pH balance and resist bacteria. Mix equal amounts of water and apple cider vinegar, soak a cotton ball in the mixture, and gently apply it to the affected skin. Remember, though, if a blister has burst or a raw wound has formed, do not use vinegar — it will increase the burning.

Alongside using natural ingredients, some rules must be followed to keep pompholyx under control. First, never try to scratch the blisters open with your hands. If a blister bursts, the inner skin is exposed and bacterial infection can set in. Second, do not handle detergents, dishwashing liquid or alkaline soap directly while doing household work. Use cotton-lined rubber gloves when needed.

Pompholyx is mainly a long-term problem that can return again and again. Although natural remedies can ease the discomfort, if the symptoms become very severe, pus comes out of the blisters, or there is intense pain, see a dermatologist promptly without delay.