Although it has been over 5 months and many of us are getting back to our regular lives, many are still remaining cautious (as they should) by upping up their hand washing game to keep the viruses away.
But these health officials have forgotten to remind people to apply a shielding lotion or hydrating moisturizer to prevent dry, cracked hands that occur from washing hands too much.
The word Help is written in cream. Painful dry hands of a man in cream or ointment. Blue background
And for those who suffer from existing skin conditions, washing hands too much dry skin can only lead to bleeding and open wounds which are an entry point for bacteria – eek!
So, why is hand washing so harsh on our skin?
The outermost layer of the skin which is composed of natural oils, acts as both a shield from the outside and helps to maintain any natural moisture underneath the skin. This natural barrier is washed away by soap while washing hands, which does not discriminate between unwanted oil, germs, debris and natural oils in the skin. If one does not apply a hand lotion directly after washing, then dry, itchy flaky and even cracked skin is inevitable. Those with existing dermatologic conditions like eczema can experience worsening symptoms.
What is the right way to wash our hands to avoid itchy dry skin?
Using a mild soap is the first step. Applying only just enough and avoiding overdoing it is going to help washing away that natural shield and oils. Washing in only warm water (not scolding hot) and patting with a dry is the best method. Keeping a shielding lotion nearby, i your car, and handbag will ensure it is always in reach.
What ingredients should be avoided for sensitive skin types?
Fragrances and dyes are the most common irritants for cause sensitive skin.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ It works!
“My skin is normally very dry, but with all the handwashing due to the COVID pandemic the skin was cracked, coming off in little dry chunks, and bleeding. I heard a TV news report where they were interviewing a doctor about hand washing and COVID and he mentioned that the natural oils on the skin help to provide a protective barrier against COVID infection and that he was concerned that frequent hand washing was leaving some people with cracked hand skin that could be a portal for infection.
The interviewer asked the doctor what he recommended and the doctor reluctantly mentioned that he stocked a product called “Gloves in a Bottle” in his office for him and his staff to use after hand washing and that seemed to be the best product he had tried. I ordered a bottle right away from Amazon.
What a difference! I only use it a few times per day and within 3 days the skin on my hands stopped peeling and cracking. After a week the skin had a healthy glow instead of the dull, flat matte dry skin appearance. This is not an inexpensive solution, but for me it has worked miracles!” – Sue C
When you’re washing your hands try to use a fragrance-free soap and after you blot dry your hands immediately moisturize!
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