How do I get rid of my dry hands?
Dry hands are a common problem that is usually caused by environmental factors. People who wash dishes frequently or live in a cold, dry climate may be more prone to experiencing painful dry hands than other people.
Dry hands are mainly caused by the following:
- -Weather
- -Lack of moisture in the air
- -Dry skin
Dry hands are most commonly caused by weather, irritants, and medical conditions. Weather-related dryness typically occurs in the winter when the air is drier and the body has difficulty retaining moisture.
This lack of moisture causes the skin to become dry and cracked, which can lead to soreness, itching, and even bleeding. Irritants like soap, detergent, and acid can also cause dry hands by stripping away natural oils and moisture.
And finally, certain medical conditions can contribute to dryness, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
People who frequently wash their hands, like doctors or nurses, are more likely to have dry hands than people who don’t wash their hands as often. This is because repeated exposure to chemicals and soaps can cause the skin on your hands to dry out.
Some people may experience dry hands due to an underlying medical condition.
There are a few things you can do to help relieve dryness in your hands:
– Use a hand cream or lotion regularly, especially after washing your hands
– Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals
– Wear gloves when doing chores or working with chemicals
– Drink plenty of fluids
- Use moisturizers
There are many moisturizing creams and oils available commercially that can help restore the natural moisture to your skin. To get the best results, use a moisturizing cream or oil on your hands after every wash. Some good options include coconut oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter.
- Protect the skin
The sun is one of the most drying elements for skin – especially hands. Exposing the hands to prolonged sun exposure can cause burns, and lead to other, more severe health problems. All areas of the body should be protected from the sun, and the hands are no exception. A quality sun block can help prevent the sun from drying out the hands.
- Try overnight treatments
If you have extremely dry hands, you may want to try treating them overnight by using copious amounts of moisturizing lotions or creams. Once you have applied the cream, put socks, gloves, or mittens over your hands. The coverings help to keep the moisturizer in touch with your skin so it can be absorbed overnight.
- Apply aloe vera
Aloe vera is a common ingredient in many skin care products because it has natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera is available over the counter, and it can be used as a natural, safe moisturizer for the skin.
- Avoid soap
The chemicals in some soaps can have a drying effect on the hands. People should avoid washing their hands excessively to avoid drying them out.
- Wear gloves
People who work with their hands submerged in water or who frequently have their hands in contact with water should consider wearing rubber gloves.
Prolonged exposure to water can dry out the hands because it washes away the natural oils in the skin. The gloves give a layer of protection to help prevent the hands from drying out.
- Use a humidifier
People with respiratory issues often use humidifiers to help with their breathing. However, humidifiers can also help protect skin from drying out, which is especially useful for people living in dry environments or during the winter months.
Typically, the best place to have a humidifier is near the bed, but it can be used in any room of the house.
Table of Contents
How to prevent dry hands
Depending on a person’s situation, they may be more susceptible to developing dry hands. For example, those who work in environments where they have to wash their hands frequently will want to apply moisturizer immediately following hand-washing. Additionally, dishwashers and others who work with a lot of water may want to consider wearing gloves as a means of protection from excessive exposure.
People with eczema or other skin conditions should take steps to prevent flares, which may include reducing stress and following all recommendations from a doctor. In addition, everyone can try to limit their sun exposure, and most people should avoid using hot air dryers if dry hands are a problem.
Takeaway
Most people will experience dry hands at some point in their lives. In most cases, over-the-counter creams and home remedies are enough to help treat and prevent dry hands. Anyone who does not see an improvement from home solutions, or who notices other symptoms, should speak to their doctor.