Not many people take care of the skin on their hands, but as we ageour hands are one of the places where this process becomes noticeable first. We use our hands throughout the day and, with constant washing (especially since the global pandemic), the skin can become dry very quickly, which can lead to premature ageing. If you want your hands to look smooth and healthy, there are a few ways to achieve this result.
Dry hands are not only caused by over-washing though; it can also be the result of prolonged exposure to harsh weather, artificial heating, and certain jobs where the hands are used constantly.
Use Moisturizing Soap
Most of us have been on the lookout for antibacterial soaps and handwashes ever since Covid-19, but these soaps can be quite drying and can leave the hands looking older than their years. It is best to use lukewarm water rather than hot or coldwhen washing the hands and dry them fully before using any hand sanitizer or cream. Gel type hand sanitizers can be sticky and dry out the hands, so use a spray instead.
Get into the Habit of Wearing Gloves
When doing work around the house or in the garden, try to wear a pair of rubber gloves to protect your skin from water and cleaning chemicals. The gloves will provide a barrier for the skin, preventing damage and keeping them nice and soft. Rubber gloves are ideal when washing dishes, doing laundry, cleaning bathrooms, cleaning the oven, and cleaning up after your pets. It is important, however, to choose the right gloves. Those made from latex are not suitable for everyone and can cause irritation.
Choose the Correct Hand Cream
When choosing a hand cream, you will need to find one that provides protection for the skinwhile also hydrating it. According to Houston-based company CedarStoneIndustry, makers of ethanol hemp extractionequipment, a cream enriched with hemp is perfect for providing relief for dry skin, particularly skin that is regularly exposed to the elements. Hemp oil offers relief for a variety of skin conditions (such as eczema), and when used as an ingredient in hand creamcan help to protect the precious skinwhile keeping it soft and supple at the same time.
Remember to apply hand cream to the backs of your hands as well as the palms. Many people focus on the palms only but the skin on the back of the hands is quite thin and is prone to dryness because it has fewer sebaceous glands than the palms.
Pamper Your Hands
Many people have a regular pampering routine where they focus entirely on their face, but there are many fabulous pampering products that have been designed for the hands. Consider exfoliating your hands with a gentle product from time to time as this will remove any dead skin, making your hands feel softer and more capable of absorbing any cream you put on. You can also find hydrating hand masks that will rejuvenate the skin on your hands, making them appear more youthful.
Protect Your Hands from the Sun
Most people neglect their hands when applying sunscreen. Daily sun protection is important as UV rays can penetrate windows, even on cloudy days. Get into the habit of applying sunscreen to your face and hands every day;especially when on vacation, do not forget to protect your hands.
The skin on the hands can age prematurely, especially if they are allowed to become dry and cracked. Following the above advice on how to take care of your handswill help to keep them soft and smooth.
