Our hands do so much for us. They type through the days at work, cook meals to satiate hunger and even wash the dishes once dinner is done; apart from everything else in our lives. But when you look at your hands at the end of the day, do you find them rough, flaky and sensitive? They really shouldn't be and that's a sign they are not being nourished the way they should. Why do hands end up feeling this way? We have the answers.
Reasons Why Your Hands Become Dry And Damaged
They aren't protected from the sun. Yes, like your face and body, your hands too require adequate sun protection else signs of aging could show up on them.
Your job involves heavy usage of your hands. If part of your daily routine involves manual labour of the hands like washing and scrubbing, it could make them dry over time.
ADVERTISEMENTThey come in contact with harsh substances. Frequent contact with harsh substances and chemicals like dish soap and detergents can sap the moisture from hands over time and leave them rough and calloused.
Medical conditions. Certain medical conditions and medication can cause flaking and dryness as a symptom which can extend to the hands.
(Also Read: Are Your Hands Dry, Itchy And Flaky? Your Soap Could Be The Culprit)
How To Protect Your Hands From Dryness And Roughness
Not only are rough hands uncomfortable to the owner, they can make one feel conscious too. With these skincare tips, you can protect them in your daily routine.
1. When applying sunscreen, extend it over your hands and fingers. This complete skin protection will help you in the long run.
2. Avoid washing your hands with soaps which dry them out. Opt for hand washes and soaps with additives to keep them moisturised and hydrated even when they are washed multiple times in a day.
3. Use gloves for labour involving your hands. Since many tasks like washing the dishes and mopping the floor cannot be skipped, slip into rubber gloves when doing so which will prevent them from coming in contact with harsh cleaners and chemicals used in the process.
4. End your day with hand cream. Add hand cream to your skin routine as the last step before you hit the hay at night for overnight nourishment.
5. Turn on a humidifier. Humidifiers add moisture to dry air, which can be helpful when you're suffering from dry skin and hands too.
(Also Read: Are You Washing Your Hands The Correct Way? Hygiene Tips From WHO)
Home Remedies For Dry Skin On Your Hands
Dry skin isn't only found on the face and body. It can extend to the hands as well and further worsen through exposure to drying chemicals and physical labour. Fortunately, there are home remedies that can reduce the symptoms and make hands more nourished and soft.
1. Coconut Oil
Generously apply 2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil to your hands, over your palms and in between your fingers. Massage it into the hands and leave it for 2-3 hours or overnight. An emollient, coconut oil will help naturally soften the rough skin.
2. Petroleum Jelly
Before sleeping at night, take 2 small scoops of petroleum jelly and apply it generously over the hands. Massage it slightly and slip your hands into a pair of gloves. It is best done at night to prevent from having to use hands once applied. Petroleum jelly has the ability to lock moisture in, which helps reduce dryness.
3. Honey
Apply 2-3 tablespoons of honey to your hands. Make sure you get enough around your fingers and over the back of your hands. Leave it for 30 minutes as you would with a mask, then wash off with warm water. Honey will help attract moisture to tired, rough hands.
4. Almond Oil
Apply 3-4 tablespoons of almond oil to your hands. Massage it until it is dissolved. Almost instantly, you'll notice your skin feeling much plumper and softer. As almond oil contains fatty acids, it smoothens and nourishes skin greatly.
5. Milk
In a deep bowl, heat 4-5 tablespoons of whole milk until warm. Place your hands in the bowl and soak in the milk for 20 minutes. Remove and wash off with cold water. Milk is a great nourisher to aid dry skin.
These home remedies for dry skin can be repeated daily until you see results.
Comments
(Also Read: Say Hi To Soft Hands. Grab These Nourishing Hand Creams Right Away)
