How to Avoid Dry Skin from Frequent Hand Washing
Whether it's on TV, radio, newspapers or social media, there's one message you've come across more times than you can remember: wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. That last part is important — "frequently and thoroughly".
Health experts recommend that people regularly wash their hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitiser for at least 20 seconds per wash.
While that advice may be great for removing most germs from your hands, it does have one drawback. Although frequent hand washing is a reliable way to keep viruses and bacteria at bay, doing so can lead to or worsen dry skin issues, especially during winter.
How Frequent Hand Washing Dries Your Skin
Soap and water rid your hands of dirt and germs, but also strip your skin of its natural, protective oils, causing it to dry out. This constant cycle of washing and drying causes more irritation than your skin is used to, causing your hands to dry and crack. When cracks form on your skin, you’re more susceptible to contracting infections through the fissures, and this can lead to conditions such as eczema.
How to Keep Hands Clean and Moisturised
When you’re done washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, pat them dry instead of rubbing them, as rubbing can irritate the skin. Once your hands are dry, use a Vaseline lotion to seal in moisture. Because you’re going to be washing your hands after heading to the mall or work (if you provide an essential service), be sure to carry your own lotion instead of sharing as this can spread germs.
Keep the Petroleum Jelly Handy
Lotions and creams aren’t your only options. Petroleum jelly can do the job just as well, if not better. You’ve already figured that the best time to apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly is right after you wash your hands. But it’s also advised to apply some just before you head to bed. When your body is having a break, your skin should join in on the fun. Apply a thick amount of petroleum jelly on your hands before putting on a pair of cotton gloves. If you can bear that for a few hours before you head to bed, or even leave them overnight, giving your skin all the time it needs to rehydrate.
You shouldn’t have to choose between your hygiene and good skincare. The importance of washing your hands properly and regularly can’t be overstated. Neither can the importance of keeping your hands moisturised. Luckily, you don’t have to choose between the two.
