Editor’s note: This first article from new Current contributor Fatima Adams-Zahn offers hints on caring for frequently-washed hands.
We’re doing everything that we can to keep ourselves and our families safe from this virus that seems to threaten all that we’ve built up and hold dear.
Along with other recommendations, our health organizations have stressed the importance of washing and sanitizing hands to flatten the curve. Given that we care for our future and the future of our communities, we are not only following these recommendations but making sure that we teach health and safety practices to the younger ones in our care.
Hand care
Not many people seem to be paying attention to what is happening to our skin or offering recommendations. After the first week of added sanitizer and hand washing for 20 seconds each time, my hands started to transform into kindling! No joke! Especially as we come out of winter, I knew then that something had to be done consistently to regain my moisture levels.
Here are the facts:
- Winter means less humidity in the air, resulting in depletion of any and all of the natural lubricants that our skin produces.
- Because there is less fat on the back of hands, the skin is much thinner there. This means that dryness and signs of aging become much more noticeable on hands than other areas of your body.
These two main factors coupled with frequent hand washing destroys moisturized skin on your hands.
Here are the solutions:
- Use rich moisturizers.
- Keep a moisturizer at every area where you wash or sanitize your hands. (Sinks, car, purse, bedside, office, laundry room … you get it, everywhere!)
- Don’t let your hands fully dry after you wash without moisturizing.
- Always use protective gloves to do cleaning, dishes, garden work, etc.
- Purchase a rich hand cream that leaves hands silky and soft. Use this moisturizer in the night with moisturizing gloves (or a clean sock, let’s be real) and wake up with soft, supple skin.
- Shield with SPF.
- Treat yourself to a do-it-yourself anti-aging manicure.
And most of all stay safe, stay happy and stay healthy!
About the author: Fatima Adams-Zahn opened Eve’s Escape Spa in Barry’s Bay nine years ago after she and her husband decided to return to her home town to let their kids enjoy the freedom of rural life. Her passion for aesthetics coupled with her post-secondary business skills mean Fatima seeks to create the best wellness experience for clients. The spa is closed during the pandemic but she provides free tips and skin condition consultations through Facebook. Products are also available for purchase.
photo dry hands eminence