Are you suffering from cracked dry skin on your hands? Itching and burning, unsightly and painful...dry cracked hands and fingers embarrass and torment. You need help!
These dermatologist recommended remedies deliver.
Dry cracked skin on hands is a common winter misery.
I suffer from this every year. Cold winter weather, harsh soaps, and housecleaning chores can be brutal.
Exposed and vulnerable, hands require extra moisture and added protection. Follow these steps to…
Alleviate and prevent cracked dry skin on hands
Eliminate unnecessary hand washing. Sure you want to have sanitary hands, just don't overdue it. When possible, wash only your palms. Skin on the back of hands is thin and dries out easily.
Choose a mild, natural cleanser. No anti-bacterial soaps! They are extremely drying.
Avoid hot-air blow dryers. Your hands prefer a gentle towel dry.
Apply a natural cream moisturizer after every wash. Repeat several additional times during the day. I keep small “reminder” containers of hand cream by my sink, in my purse, and near my desk.
Wear gloves for dishwashing and cleaning chores. Slip a pair of cotton gloves underneath rubber gloves to absorb sweat. Change and wash the cotton gloves frequently.
CAUTION: Avoid rubber gloves if you are allergic to latex. A long-handled brush helps for dishes.
Use mild, natural housecleaning products. They are kinder to both you and the environment.
Don mittens or gloves when outside in cold weather.
I find that diligence is key. The battle is ongoing throughout cold winter weather.
The following overnight treatment works wonders for my red, burning hands. Try it for the cracked dry skin on your hands.
The white glove treatment...
Slather a thick layer of natural moisturizer on your hands just before bedtime. Then slip on a pair of white cotton gloves.
If your hands are in dire distress, you may need to repeat the treatment a few nights in a row. In a pinch, I've been known to sleep with white cotton socks on my hands (odd looking, but it works.)
Voila…soft, beautiful hands!
Another remedy comes from the The National Jewish Medical and Research Center …
“Soak and Seal”
Soak your hands in plain, lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes. Use a small pan and no soap. This hydrates your dry skin. Gently pat damp dry. Immediately seal the moisture in your hands with a thick layer of natural moisturizer.
If the cracked dry skin on your hands does not respond to home care, seek medical attention. Dry, scaly and itchy skin is sometimes an indication of eczema. For further advice read : Treatment for Severe Dry Skin ... time to call the doctor?
Refereneces: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research National Jewish Medical and Research Center
I suffer from this every year. Cold winter weather, harsh soaps, and housecleaning chores can be brutal.
