The hands are a susceptible and aging body part due to relatively thin skin. Additionally, they come into contact with various types of bacteria, dirt, chemicals, and sunlight. Moreover, they are not shielded by clothing or makeup. While most people prioritize facial skincare, hands are also an important aspect of skincare.
Keeping hands clean
Dirty hands can spread infectious diseases. The current global COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example. Even viral or bacterial infections like salmonella and the flu can enter the body if hands are not washed properly. Given the current situation, it’s ideal to wash hands with antibacterial soap every hour. Experts recommend thorough hand rubbing for at least 20 seconds, including between fingers and wrists. If wearing rings, remove them while washing hands.
Using hand moisturizer
Hand creams are better than body lotions in many ways. They have a thicker texture and last longer on the hands. If you have extremely dry skin, you should use oil-based hand creams. Ingredients like glycerin, alpha-hydroxy acids, and urea are beneficial as they act as moisturizing agents to attract moisture from the air into the skin.
When the top layer of the skin becomes dry due to lack of moisture, it causes cracks on the surface and leaves gaps between skin cells. Moisturizers work to fill in the gaps between skin cells, making your skin smoother.
Applying hand masks
One way to care for beautiful hands is by applying hand masks to moisturize the skin further. Here’s a simple method: apply a thick layer of hand cream, add a layer of oil on top, and then put your hands into cotton gloves overnight. This helps them retain moisture overnight, and you’ll wake up with soft hands.
Protecting the epidermis layer at the nail base
The epidermal layer protects the nails and the surrounding skin from all kinds of infections. If you cut away your epidermal layer, bacteria and germs are more likely to penetrate inside, leading to infections. Next time you go to the nail salon, avoid trimming the epidermal layer at the base of the nails.
The epidermal layer is like the root of the nail. If you want long and healthy nails, you need to start taking care of your epidermal layer. If you still want to trim the epidermal layer, you should soften them first. To do this, soak your fingers in warm water or take a warm water bath. Then, use a cuticle pusher to push the epidermal layer out. Apply moisturizer immediately afterward.
Sometimes, cutting the epidermal layer can lead to an infection called Paronychia. Symptoms include redness and softening of the skin around the nails, the appearance of pus-filled blisters, and peeling of the nails. While mild Paronychia can be treated at home, chronic Paronychia requires proper medical care.
Regular massages
Hand massages not only improve their appearance but also offer significant health benefits. According to a study, hand massages provide the following benefits
- Pain reduction
- Reduction of stress and anxiety
- Increased grip strength
- Immediate improvement in mood
- Improvement in sleep quality
Exfoliating dead skin cells for hands
Use a gentle exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells from your hands at least once a week. Exfoliating can remove dead cells from your hand’s skin while making them soft and smooth.
If you don’t want to use store-bought exfoliating scrubs, you can make one at home using readily available ingredients like sugar, olive oil, and lemon juice. Remember to exfoliate the skin gently and always apply moisturizer afterward.
Handling cracked skin
Dry and cracked hands are common in cold weather. Keratolysis Exfoliativa is a common skin issue, characterized by localized peeling on the palms and less commonly on the soles of the feet. You may also experience swollen skin, redness, itching, and bleeding on your hands. It’s essential to keep your hands adequately moisturized. Effective hand moisturizers include hand creams, mineral oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, and olive oil. These can heal cracks in your hands.
Trimming nails
Nail trimming should be seen as an essential step in hand care and personal hygiene. If you let your nails grow long, dirt can get trapped underneath. Bacteria and germs are attracted to dirt. This leads to bacterial infections. Apart from bacterial infections, dirt from your nails can also cause food poisoning when handling food.
Proper diet
A nutritious diet can improve and maintain the health of both nails and hands. You should include protein-rich foods, essential fatty acids, vitamin B, and vitamin E to have healthy skin and nails. Moreover, a balanced diet will also give you soft and supple skin.