Healthy hands are happy hands, and as thankful as we are for hand soaps, sanitizers, and household cleaners right now, continuous use can leave our skin feeling rough and dry. “While cleansers and antibacterials make things squeaky clean, they also strip your skin of its natural oils, which can result in extremely dry hands and cuticles,” according to Kayla, Daybreak Wyandotte, Spa Coordinator.
Protect Your Hands
Evelyn, Woodhaven Nail Tech, loves gentl soap and water, as recommended by the CDC. “It’s our preferred method to cleanse instead of hand sanitizer, which contains skin-drying alcohol.” (please leave that for our first responders) Joo shares a healthy tip, “When cleaning, rubber gloves are your new best friend — save the disposable ones for our healthcare workers, please.” Becca recommends, “adding a dollop of Eminence Apricot Body oil before donning gloves — the warm water releases much needed moisture.”
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
“Treat dry hands at the very first signs of dryness,” say Cindy in Woodhaven. “Large cracks can be difficult to treat, so keep a supply of hand cream near your sinks, in your car, on your desk — our personal favorite, it keeps your hands moisturized up to three washes.” “Give it a little boost with your favorite essential oil, — and we could all use a little stress relief,” agrees Evelyn.
Don’t Forget Your Cuticles
“Your cuticles and nails are equally sensitive and can dry out with frequent washings and household cleaners. Dry cuticles also make your nails more susceptible to bacteria entering your nail beds. Gently push back using an orange stick and carefully trim any fraying hangnails to prevent them from further tearing,” advises Merna. Massage in Apricot Oil or any essential oil once a day to help alleviate dryness, too.
At Home Mask for Super Moisture
If your hands are extra dry, Maria suggests this at-home moisture treatment that will replenish your skin. “Apply a generous amount of lotion to your hands, then wrap them in plastic wrap. Heat damp towels for a minute in the microwave, just until warm, not too hot, then wrap the towels around your hands, allowing them to cool before removing.”
Take a moment to treat yourself to health skin and nails — we are saving a seat just for you and look forward to caring for one another again, just when we will all need it the very most.
