(HealthDay News) -- Moisturizing is essential for anyone with hand eczema to help ease pain, redness, cracking and dryness.

The National Eczema Association suggests how to choose the right moisturizer:

  • Avoid moisturizers that contain a lot of water, as this can dry hands.
  • Choose a thick, greasy moisturizer with few ingredients.
  • Apply petroleum jelly as soon as you've finished bathing, and carry some with you to apply during the day.
  • At night, apply petroleum jelly, and cover with cotton gloves while you sleep.