Winter is definitely the worst season for our skin. The cold weather dries out and damages our skin, making it rough and dehydrated. The skin on the hands seems to get dry and suffer the most during the winter. This happens because our hands are the part that’s most exposed to water, wind and cold air. It’s a very common skin care issue and it’s unrelated to your skin type – even the oiliest types can suffer from dry hands. As uncomfortable this is, it can get very painful due to cuts and cracking from dryness of the skin. Thankfully, it’s treatable and with the right care, your hands can get better in just a couple of days.
Here are some of the ways to relieve dry, rough skin on your hands.
Moisturize
This tip is way too obvious, but a lot of people seem to overlook it. Don’t moisturize just after a shower – make sure you moisturize your hands as much as you can. Apply a hydrating hand cream after every time you wash your hands. Massage a heavy ointment or natural oil just before going to bed so your hands absorb moisture while you sleep. Carry a travel sized hand cream in your purse and keep one in your workplace to make sure you can soothe your dry hands at all times.
Exfoliate
Yes, even dry skin needs exfoliation! If you exfoliate regularly, you’ll help your skin absorb the creams better and get rid of dead skin cells. Exfoliating will help you relieve rough skin, improve the texture of your hands and make them soft and smooth. If your skin is very cracked, choose a gentle hand scrub that won’t add any further damage.
Use Natural Products
If the skin on your hands gets irritated and dry very easily, it might be a sign that it’s extremely sensitive. To stay safe, it’s best to avoid products that would irritate it. Some hand creams contain chemicals that might be too harsh for sensitive skin, so try to avoid these and switch to natural products as they’re usually gentle and free of toxins.
Avoid Washing
Drinking water is amazing for your skin and overall health, but having it directly on your skin isn’t that good. Washing your hands frequently will dry out your skin and make it prone to cracks and rough patches. Taking long warm baths, although relaxing, will have a negative impact on your skin as well.
It’s best to avoid this and expose your hands to water as little as you can. This might seem unsanitary, but you can definitely keep your hands clean without washing them constantly.
Avoid Products With Alcohol
Sadly, there are many beauty products that contain alcohol. This ingredient can dry out your hands and reverse the effect of all the hand creams you’re using. Read the ingredients list before buying a product and make sure your soaps and hand sanitizer are alcohol free.
Mask
The skin on your face needs a mask once to twice a week and the same goes for your hands. Take a few minutes of your day to treat your hands with a hydrating hand mask. This will soothe your hands and give them some extra moisture.
Wear Gloves
Wearing gloves will protect your hands from the cold weather and prevent cracking and rough skin. While doing the dishes and house chores, make sure you have rubber gloves on to protect your hands from water and harsh detergents.
Drink Water
Drinking water is extremely important for the health of your skin. It’s such a simple thing to do, yet it has so many benefits. Try to stay hydrated and drink 8 glasses of water every day. This will help you hydrate your skin from within and prevent dryness, itchiness and redness.
Take Care Of Your Hands While You Sleep
If your hands are severely dry and itchy, try to add moisture even while you’re sleeping. Apply warm olive oil or argan oil and put on a pair of gloves before going to bed. This might seem strange and uncomfortable, but it’s definitely worth it. It will relieve the itching and heal the cracking. After a couple of nights, you’ll wake up to soft, healed hands!
Do you suffer from dry, itchy hands? How do you take care of your hands?
Let us know in the comments below!