Rajesh Kumar Rajesh Kumar Asked 5 months ago

Can you get eczema from working on cars?

I work as a mechanic, so my hands are always exposed to oils, grease, and sometimes harsh chemicals. Recently, I've noticed red, itchy patches developing on my fingers and wrists. Could constantly working with car parts and fluids lead to something like eczema?

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6 answers

Rohan Sharma Rohan Sharma Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago
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I recently started doing minor repair work on my own bike and now my hands are covered in dry, peeling rashes that sting. Does anyone else get this from handling petrol or engine oils? I am really worried that this might become a permanent skin problem for me.

Aditya Sen Aditya Sen Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Yes, working with automobiles exposes you to harsh chemicals, engine oils, and grease, which are classic triggers for contact dermatitis or eczema. While wearing heavy-duty gloves is a good preventive measure, it is best to consult a dermatologist for a proper patch test to identify the exact allergen.

Sanjay Nair Sanjay Nair Joined Apr 2026 5 months ago

I had a similar skin issue on my forearms last year from some cleaning chemicals. I visited the dermatology department at a reputed hospital, and the doctor clearly explained how industrial fluids cause skin barrier damage. I highly suggest visiting a good hospital rather than self-treating.

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Neha Patil Neha Patil Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

I was looking up occupational hazards for mechanics and found that 'mechanic's eczema' is actually a very common term. The constant contact with solvents, metal parts, and abrasive hand cleansers strips away the skin's natural oils completely. It sounds like a tough profession for the skin!

Varun Dhawan Varun Dhawan Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

Bro, if you are playing with engine oil and grease all day, your skin is bound to protest! Your hands are just telling you they prefer luxury spa creams over diesel. Just start using thick nitrile gloves and you won't have to choose between your car and your skin!

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Pooja Hegde Pooja Hegde Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

My brother loves restoring old jeeps and he used to get terrible itchy, red skin on his hands. He realized the harsh hand scrubs he used to get the grease off were actually making it worse. He switched to a mild, soap-free cleanser and started applying a heavy barrier cream before starting work.

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