It is painful to have dry, cracked hands, especially in cold weather. The problem can also affect people who tend to wash them too often. Try to fight it with natural remedies. You can also use commercial products and take proper care of your hands to prevent them from drying out or cracking. Taking preventative measures to protect them from dryness and cracking will allow you to stay ahead of the curve.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Natural Remedies
Step 1. Apply olive or coconut oil to your hands
Both are excellent natural moisturizers. They also help treat cracks or cuts that can occur on dry hands. Apply a generous amount of the oil to your hands, then massage it well and let it dry. Reapply the product as needed.
For an even more effective result, cover your hands with plastic bags after applying the oil. A clean pair of woolen socks or textile gloves will also work. Keep it on for 30 minutes or overnight. In this way, your hands will better absorb the active ingredients of the oil and will keep them well hydrated
Step 2. Apply shea butter to your hands
It is another good natural remedy for hands that are in dire need of hydration. Apply the butter and let it absorb. You can repeat the application whenever you feel the need during the day.
Shea butter can be found online or in stores that sell natural products
Step 3. Get a milk and oat treat
Lactic acid has exfoliating properties, while amino acids and oat silica are effective in moisturizing the skin. Mix one part of milk and one part of rolled oats. Use a bowl large enough for you to put your hands inside. Put your hands in the mixture and soak them for 10-15 minutes.
After 10-15 minutes, gently rinse your hands with warm water. You should immediately feel softer and less dry
Method 2 of 3: Commercial Products
Step 1. Apply petroleum jelly to your hands
Petroleum jelly is very effective at deeply moisturizing the skin and also helps treat cracks. Apply a generous amount to your hands and let it dry. Use it whenever you feel the need to keep them soft and hydrated.
If they are particularly cracked and dry, apply petroleum jelly and cover your hands with a plastic bag or cloth gloves. Leave on overnight. When you wake up they should be much softer
Step 2. Buy a hand cream containing natural ingredients
These creams create a thicker protective barrier than lotions. Look for a product that does not contain chemicals, dyes, fragrances or preservatives. These ingredients can irritate and dry out the skin further. Instead, opt for a cream containing natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and oats.
All-natural hand creams are available online and in the supermarket
Step 3. Try an antibiotic ointment or cream
If you have dry, irritated skin, try applying an over-the-counter bacitracin-based antibiotic ointment or cream. You can also apply the ointment, put on a pair of cotton gloves, and leave it on overnight. Keep these gloves in a plastic bag - if you tend to suffer from dryness, cracks and irritation, you will end up using them often.
Step 4. Contact your doctor for a prescription for a hand cream
If the situation is severe and over-the-counter remedies are ineffective at treating cracks and dryness, you may need a prescription cream. Contact your doctor for a prescription for another type of treatment.
Sometimes it is not possible to treat dryness and cracks with home remedies or over-the-counter creams, as they are symptomatic of skin problems (such as eczema) that require more powerful treatments
Method 3 of 3: Taking Care of Your Hands
Step 1. Wash your hands using a mild natural soap and warm water
When washing your hands, avoid using harsh soaps containing dyes, artificial ingredients, or fragrances. Instead, opt for a mild soap made from natural ingredients like olive oil, lemon, or shea butter. The water temperature should be lukewarm rather than hot, otherwise you risk drying your hands.
If your hands often come into contact with hot water (for example, you wash the dishes several times a day), protect them by wearing a pair of rubber gloves
Step 2. When it's cold outside, wear gloves with a soft inner lining
Cold weather can exacerbate dryness and cracking problems. Protect your hands from freezing air by wearing leather or wool gloves lined with silk or synthetic materials. This type of lining helps keep them soft and protected.
- Many glove manufacturers are aware of this problem and the most reputable brands offer gloves with a soft coating designed for sensitive skin, effective in protecting them from the cold. Before you buy a pair of gloves, try them on to make sure they have a good seal and a soft lining.
- Avoid gloves with a wool coating, which can irritate sensitive skin.
Step 3. Hydrate your hands regularly
Get in the habit of applying hand cream throughout the day, roughly six times a day. Bring a jar or tube of cream with you so you can reapply if needed. Get in the habit of hydrating them morning and evening, before going to bed, so that they are always soft and nourished.
