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Dry Hands: What Causes It, How To Combat It And 5 Tips To Cure It

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Dry hands can cause discomfort when performing daily activities and can also affect our self-image.

For this reason, there are various treatments that can be effective in hydrating the skin on our hands and experiencing a feeling of improvement.

Dr. Eva Oliva, a dermatologist, says that, as a result of the recent pandemic, there has been an increase in consultations from patients who have this skin problem due to the use of gel soap.

According to Oliva and other experts, excessive use of these types of products, or even some other cleaning implements, can cause dry hands.

What causes dry hands?

First of all, dry hands are medically known as xerosis, according to dermatologist Dr. Myriam Yat. In this regard, Yat mentions that the main cause is the loss of the skin’s natural protection factor, known as NMF.

Regarding other factors, both dermatologists agree that these causes can cause dry hands:

  • Using hand soaps or detergents that are too strong for the skin on your hands. They also add that direct alcohol on your hands can be harmful.
  • Changes in temperature, especially when sweating occurs.
  • Work-related causes, since there are people who, due to the nature of their work, are exposed to chemicals that are harmful to the skin.
  • Yat adds that another cause of dry hands is the frequent use of gelish without adequate protection. He also mentions that those who frequently lift weights may suffer from calluses and dryness in their hands.
  • In general, experts say that people with sensitive skin or allergies may also experience this problem.

How to combat dry hands?

Taking into account the above causes, it is essential to know the root of the problem to choose the best solution. For example, if you use alcohol directly on your hands, avoid this measure as much as possible.

In addition, professionals recommend a series of general tips that may be useful for you if you suffer from this problem:

5 tips to treat dry hands

These are the main suggestions from professionals to avoid dry hands:

  1. Wear suitable gloves when cleaning. Yat recommends using gloves with fabric on the inside to protect your hands.
  2. According to Oliva, it is preferable to use moisturizing creams sold in pharmacies, since these are usually more consistent than commercial ones. Look for one that suits your pH. According to Medline Plus, very strong hydrocortisone products (available by prescription) are suggested for dry hands.
  3. Yat recommends washing hands with cold water and bathing with lukewarm water. If you wash dishes at home or work in a restaurant, do not use hot water.
  4. It is recommended to use moisturizer at least every four hours or every time you wash your hands.
  5. In general, use soaps or detergents that do not dry out the skin as much.
It is important to protect your hands from dryness. (Photo Prensa Libre: Freepik)

Experts also recommend consulting a specialist if the problem of dryness persists or if you have other symptoms such as bleeding hands, scabs, lumps, and other abnormal signs.

It is also recommended to take proper care of your nails, cutting them properly and generally treating your hands appropriately. Remember that prevention is the key and if you have any abnormal symptoms, it is important to call your doctor as soon as possible.

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