Regardless of what line of work we’re in, we all use our hands extensively. Our hands are always exposed to the sun and the air, while most parts of our body stay covered. However good or bad the weather is, our hands always suffer more than any part of the body, and we often ignore them. The most common cause of having rough, dry, and overworked hands is that the outer layer of the skin on our hands gets compromised and are mostly unable to retain moisture and naturally rejuvenate. The exposure to wind, dirt, pollutants, and UV rays of the sun can damage this layer of the skin, which results in the drying and aging of our hands.
However, if you follow a few simple steps, your rough and dry hands will soften and look younger in a short span of time. Follow these tips and soften your hands to look young and fresh.
1. Avoid Using Too Much Soap
Avoid using soaps that contain synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and preservatives as they make the skin dry. The foam that soaps create strip the skin of the natural oils and fats and cause drying. Moisturizing cleansers are a better option to rinse your hands thoroughly.
2. Moisturize and Moisturize
One mantra to keep your hands soft is to keep them moisturized all the time. You may use coconut oil or glycerin with rose water as natural formulas to keep your hands soft, supple, and the skin soothed to the core. When you go out, carry a small bottle of moisturizer.
3. Avoid Using Hot-Air Dryers
Although very popular these days, hot-air dryers do no good to your skin. Use tissues to pat-dry your hands, or if you want to save money and also the environment, carry a small handkerchief to dry your hands instead. Once rinsed, do not forget to use a lotion.
4. Start Wearing Gloves
You might already be doing this, but you also tend to forget wearing your gloves quite often, right? If you are out on the job, or gardening, or doing the dishes, or washing anything in your house, wear gloves to protect your hands. Prevention of the damage is better than curing it. Wear cotton or leather gloves, and avoid the usage of vinyl gloves as they make the skin dryer.
5. Learn The Art Of Exfoliation
You might be exfoliating your face and neck, but you often end up neglecting your hands although they are more prone to damage. If your hands are severely calloused, use a pumice stone to exfoliate. You may also alternatively try rubbing a mixture of 1-2 tablespoons of sugar with some olive oil to exfoliate the dry skin on your hands. Do this 1-4 times a week, and don’t forget to moisturize your hands once you are done.
6. Use Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is the secret to keep your skin youthful. This naturally obtained substance works as a miracle for numerous skin issues. Aloe vera gel will not only provide moisture to your skin but also keep your hands beautiful.
7. Take A Bath In Oats
If you add oats to your bathwater, be it cooked or raw, they are going to improve the texture of your hands significantly. Mix the oats with warm olive oil or warm jojoba oil and soak your hands in it for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this twice a week, and you will see the difference.
8. Apply Coconut Oil
Coconut oil in its purest form can do magic to your skin. Virgin coconut oil contains a lot of fatty acids which are beneficial to keep the skin healthy. Apply it directly on your skin before going to bed and wear gloves overnight for the best results.
With these few simple tips, your hands will regain the lost luster and will soften to look younger in no time.
