With the Government’s important advice on increased hand washing to combat the spread of the coronavirus, you may find your hands become drier than usual.
Our hands are already susceptible to dryness during the cold weather but an increase in the use of soap and hand sanitiser may cause your skin to become red, cracked and uncomfortable.
So, how can you treat and prevent dry hands?
Avoid perfumed soap
Unfortunately, soap can dry your skin so try to keep your hands supple by washing with an unperfumed, moisturising cream soap if possible.
Build a barrier
When you’ve washed your hands, apply moisturiser to lock in the water. Moisturise your hands anywhere and at any time they need hydration. Hand cream forms a barrier against the drying effects of handwashing and cold weather. Again, avoid perfumed products if you can and gently massage into the skin to help with circulation.
Exfoliate
Just as you exfoliate the skin on your face and body, it’s beneficial to do the same on your hands. Exfoliate with a scrub to remove the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresh skin underneath.
Night repair
Night-time is your chance to repair the damage to your skin. Look for a thicker moisturising cream, rather than lotion. Slather your hands and let it soak into your skin whilst you sleep.
Nails
When your hands are dehydrated your nails can become weak, flaky or brittle. Massage a drop of nourishing sweet almond oil (or Folli Oil Daily Treatment Oil!) into your nail and cuticles at bedtime and gently push back your cuticles.
Wear gloves
Wearing gloves when outside will increase the humidity of the air next to your skin and help prevent your skin drying out. Don’t forget to launder your gloves regularly to ensure good hygiene.
Hopefully, these tips will prove helpful whilst we all do our best to keep safe.