Although often considered a minor issue, dry hands can be quite bothersome. Typically, environmental factors and daily routines are the culprits behind dry skin on hands. Nonetheless, certain individuals might encounter hand skin dryness due to an underlying medical ailment. Fortunately, various methods exist to moisturise dry hands and keep them hydrated, irrespective of the cause. So, let’s explore home remedies for dry hands and gain insights into the root causes behind this condition.
Dry Hands Causes
Some of the common dry hands causes include:
1. Weather
Cold, dry weather, especially during the colder months, can often lead to dry hands. This is because changes in climate, with low humidity levels, tend to draw moisture from the skin.
2. Occupation
Certain jobs, such as those requiring frequent handwashing (example: healthcare professionals or teachers) or exposure to chemicals and irritants (example: hairdressers or factory workers) can contribute to dry hands.
3. Health Conditions
Individuals with specific health conditions like autoimmune disorders (example: diabetes or lupus), which may lead to reduced blood circulation in the hands, are more prone to experiencing dry, easily irritated hands. Conditions like psoriasis and eczema, characterised by skin inflammation, can also result in dry, peeling, and cracked skin on the hands.
Dry Hands Treatment
You can try these effective remedies as a first line of dry hands treatment.
1. Moisturise Your Hands
Apply a high-quality moisturising lotion or cream to your hands several times a day, especially after hand-wash. Look for products specifically designed for hands. After each hand wash, reapply moisturiser to help replenish natural skin moisture. Regular application of certain oils, like coconut oil, is also one of the helpful home remedies for dry hands.
2. Protect Hands from the Sun
Prolonged sun exposure can lead to burns, dryness and other skin issues. Protect your hands from the sun’s harmful rays by applying a quality sunscreen. This will help prevent your skin from drying out due to sun exposure.
3. Wear Gloves
If your hands are frequently exposed to water, like when washing dishes, then consider wearing gloves. Notably, gloves act as a barrier, preventing water from stripping away your skin’s natural oil.
4. Try Overnight Treatments
For those with severely dry hands, overnight treatments can be beneficial. These treatments involve the application of a generous amount of moisturising cream or lotion to your hands, before covering them with gloves, mittens or socks before going to bed. This helps the moisturiser penetrate and hydrate your skin effectively overnight, serving as a highly effective dry hands treatment.
5. Use a Humidifier
In dry environments or during the winter season, a humidifier can prevent skin from drying out. It’s especially effective when placed near your bed but can be used in any room of the house.
6. Apply Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties, is an all-natural and perfectly safe moisturiser that makes for an excellent dry hands treatment option. It’s readily available over the counter and can be applied to your skin to keep it hydrated and healthy.
7. Exfoliate Gently
Exfoliation helps get rid of dead, damaged, and dry skin. You can use commercial exfoliating products or a pumice stone. You can also create a homemade solution by combining olive oil with 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
8. Avoid Hot Air Dryers
Hot air dryers can contribute to skin dryness. The hot and dry air can overdry your hands. Whenever possible, opt for using paper towels and gently pat your hands dry instead.
9. Manage Stress Levels
Stress can trigger outbreaks or flares, especially for people with conditions like eczema. Keeping stress levels under control can help prevent dry skin on your hands and other parts of your body. You can try meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises to reduce stress.
10. Take an Oat Bath
Adding cooked or raw oats to a bath can rejuvenate your skin. You can use oats in a small basin mixed with oil like olive oil or mix them with water for a full bathtub soak. This is one of the safest and most effective home remedies for dry hands.
Conclusion
Dry hands are a common issue that many people face occasionally. Usually, using home remedies and over-the-counter creams is sufficient for preventing and treating dry hands. However, if home treatment doesn’t bring improvement or if you observe additional symptoms like bleeding or signs of infection, then it’s advisable to consult your doctor.
