Youthful Hands This Winter

When we think about skincare, most of us know the importance of the basics - cleansing, moisturizing, and wearing sunscreen. But did you ever think about applying these fundamentals to your hands? We use our hands constantly throughout the day, we use them for almost everything - typing, shopping, cleaning, lifting weights, or holding hands with our children. This constant use calls for some extra care. 

During these cold winter months hand care is more important than ever, especially this particularly harsh winter when many people all over the country are fighting below normal temperatures. Now more than ever, it is important to keep your skin on your face, body, and of course, those hands - healthy and hydrated. Dry skin can become flakey, itchy and even crack (which can be  painful!) so take a look at some of these tips to keep your hands feeling healthy and looking great this winter:

Wash them gently

I work, I have kids, and I'm shaking hands at events all the time, so I lose count of how many times I wash my hands a day! All this hand washing is good at getting rid of germs, but it can also really dry out your skin. When you wash your hands, try using warm water instead of hot water.  This includes when you're doing the dishes. Also, try soap that has a moisturizer. Even dish soap companies have caught on to the need get clean dishes without drying out your hands so look for the brands that offer hand-sensitive formulas or added moisturizers  Try Palmolive Ultra Soft Touch Concentrated Dish Liquid Coconut Butter soap and treat your hands while getting your chores done.

Moisturize Well

A great quality moisturizer can be a game-changer for your hands. My favorite is Murad's Hydro Dynamic Ultimate Moisture. It also comes in a really pretty jar that I love having sit on my countertop!

Cover them up!

Warm gloves are great to keep our hands protected from the icy winter wind, but they also prevent your hands from drying out. You should also wear cleaning gloves to protect your skin from harsh cleaning chemicals.

Apply Sunscreen

Your hands are out there in the sun just like your face, so protect them from skin cancer and aging by slapping on some sunscreen. Just like your face, you should apply sunscreen to your hands year round. Keep up with this and you’ll slow down the "hands of time" and hold on to your hand's youthful appearance.

Pamper them

If you can’t make it to the nail salon you can create your own at-home salon experience. It is important to keep your nails clean so try preparing an essential oil hand soak to release the dirt from under your nails while enjoying some aroma therapy. I know when I get a manicure my favorite part is the hand massage. Not only does it feel great, but it is also really good for you. Try massaging your own hands with a rich shea butter moisturizer, or bargain a massage trade with your spouse. Hand massages can increase circulation, improve finger and wrist range, and reduce arthritis pain.