Hi I have also been doing this for years. It star started off on my legs and hands but now its just on my hands. I will stop for a couple days but then Im right back at it. Doing it again just like an addiction. My hands will swell up and dry out. After that they will peel then I start the cycle all over again. I do have allergies to everything and I have eczema. I also have gotten cellulitis because of the constant burning of my hands. I just wish i could stop but nothing else stops my hands from itching. I've tired everything to help it such as over the counter drugs and scrips from the doctor. I just want to go a day with out itching my hands or burning them.