You’re not the only one wondering why your hands are so dry.
That itchy, flaky, tight feeling tends to sneak up on all of us.
From the weather to the soap you’re using, here’s what could be causing it and what you can do to get some much-needed relief.
Common Causes of Dry Hands
Understanding the root of the problem is key to soothing your skin.
So, if you’re thinking, why are my hands always dry? Here are some of the most common culprits.
Excessive Washing
Regular handwashing is essential for good hygiene, but washing too often may have a negative impact on your skin.
Frequent cleansing, especially with hot water, is often linked with dryness, as it could gradually strip away moisture.
Your Environment and Lifestyle
You might be asking, why are my hands so dry even when I moisturize? The answer could lie in your environment and day-to-day activities.
For example, spending time in cold weather may have a negative impact on the skin barrier, which might leave them feeling tight and uncomfortable.
Harsh Products
Using products that are too harsh on your skin may also contribute to dryness.
Sanitizers and washes with strong ingredients like high alcohol content are often associated with stripping away moisture.
This issue is also common in professions that involve frequent exposure to water, such as healthcare, cleaning, and food preparation.
Underlying Skin Conditions
In some cases, dryness may be linked to underlying skin conditions.
For example, eczema is often associated with symptoms such as flaking, itching, and irritation.
If these signs continue despite gentle care, it may be worth seeking advice from a healthcare professional.
How to Prevent Dry Hands
Whether you’re looking to soothe or prevent dryness, the right routine could make all the difference.
Wash Your Hands Gently
With handwashing being a non-negotiable, it’s important to do it as gently as possible.
Use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to help reduce moisture loss while keeping your skin clean.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating once or twice a week helps to buff away build-up and smooth visibly rough, dry skin.
It could also create a supple, even base that preps your skin for moisturizer. Be sure to use a gentle scrub designed specifically for hands, then follow up with an enriching cream.
Moisturize Often
Keeping your hands well-moisturized throughout the day is key to preventing dryness.
Look for gentle, enriching ingredients like glycerine and shea butter, and opt for alcohol and sulfate free formulas. Our Collagen Hand Cream brings these benefits together in a rich, comforting blend.
Applying moisturizer regularly, especially after washing your hands, helps maintain a healthy barrier and keeps your skin feeling soft and smooth.
Expert Tip: Keep hand cream next to your sink and in your go-to handbags to make it part of your routine.
Protect Your Hands
Whether you're cleaning or spending time outdoors, it's important to protect your hands to help prevent dryness.
Wearing gloves could help create a barrier against cold weather and frequent water exposure. And while we often focus on the face when it comes to sun protection, regularly applying SPF may help keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.
Caring for your skin doesn’t end here. Now that you’ve figured out why your hands are so dry and how to help them, it’s time to give the rest of your body the same attention - check out our guide on how to elevate your body care routine.
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