This invention discloses a method of use for a topical herbal formulation alone or in combination with oral administration of niacin (preferably a flush preparation) to prevent and/or treat dyshidrosis (pompholyx) and related skin diseases. The formulation may also be used to treat contact dermatitis, eczema, palmoplantar pustulosis and skin infections incurred by invasive pathogens such as mold, fungus and bacteria. The formulation is comprised of plant extracts and niacin, that when combined yield an effective multi-faceted pharmaceutical approach to treating dry skin disorders. The active ingredients within the formula include a combination of dry, aqueous, acid and alcohol extracts of black walnut hull (Juglans nigra), wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), tumeric rhizome (Curcuma longa), garlic (Allium sativum), two or more herbal antibacterial agents from the group consisting of chamomile (Matricaria Chamomile), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), St Johns wort (Hypericum perforatum), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), nutmeg (Myristica fragans), ginger (Zingiber officinale), frankincense (Boswellia carteri) and myrrh (Commiphora molmol), further combined with aloe vera and niacin.