Occupational hand dermatitis, the most common work-related skin disease, is divided into irritant and allergic types [1]. Occupational irritant hand dermatitis (OIHD) is associated with repetitive wet work, contact with detergents and other chemicals, and prolonged glove wearing. OIHD frequently becomes chronic, exerts a major impact on quality of life, and may eventuate in disability or job loss/change. As such, its prevention is paramount.

In this paper, we summarize findings from a 2018 Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the efficacy of strategies for primary prevention of OIHD [2]. Inclusion criteria specified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of barrier creams, moisturizers, gloves, or educational programs involving employees without pre-existing OIHD working in high-risk fields. Databases were searched without language restriction through the end of January 2018. The primary outcomes were incidence of new-onset OIHD and frequency of intervention discontinuation owing to adverse effects.