Overwashing the hands, especially with harsh soaps, erode the natural barrier of the skin. This results in mild and severe symptoms like redness and irritation. The continuous neglect of dry and cracked hands will leave a person vulnerable to infections.
Luckily, there are ways to help heal dry and cracked hands from overwashing.
5 Natural Remedies to Treat Dry and Cracked Hands from Overwashing
There are many ways to treat dry and cracked skin using natural ingredients. These ingredients act as moisturizers, which anyone can find and use at home after a nice bath. Make sure to apply the chosen natural remedy generously and let the skin fully absorb it.
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Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains moisturizing oils and sugar that help replenish the skin’s natural oils, rejuvenate dry patches, and maintain the strength of the hands’ protective layer. This natural exfoliant can also heal cracked hands by removing dead skin cells that accumulate on the skin’s top layer.
An oatmeal bath is a gentler option and eliminates the need for scrubbing. This natural ingredient is ideal for relieving skin conditions like eczema or treating dry and sensitive hands.
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Honey
Honey has a highly saturated solution that draws moisture in and improves the skin’s softness. It is recommended to soak the hands for 10 to 15 minutes in a mixture of pure honey and warm water.
This natural humectant is loaded with antioxidants and antibacterial properties. It guards the skin against infections while giving plenty of nutrients and enzymes. Honey can also reverse the effects of aging-related skin dryness.
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Aloe Vera Gel
Applying aloe vera gel seals the moisture back into dry hands. At the same time, the enzymes in the plant exfoliate the skin. Aloe vera gel is primarily made up of water, which gives it cooling properties that counter dryness.
Since it is both a moisturizer and an exfoliant, experts warn not to overuse aloe vera gel. It can either make the skin too oily or dry depending on the skin type. Nonetheless, it still includes essential nutrients and vitamins that treat extremely dry hands.
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Avocado
Avocado holds many nourishing oils that moisturize the skin. It is versatile as well. Mixing it with rolled oats and lemon juice creates an all-natural hydrating hand mask to heal rough and dry hands by creating a seal over the skin layer that maintains moisture.
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Sunflower Seed Oil
Sunflower oil is a natural emollient that helps rehydrate skin. It is the most suitable for people with sensitive and irritated skin.
Massaging cracked and dry hands with sunflower oil protects them from further damage. The oil also removes dead skin cells leaving the hands smooth and strengthens the protective layer of the skin.
Look for Hydrating Hand Products
Frequent handwashing or exposure to harsh chemicals can lead to dry and cracked hands. One way to combat this is by using quality hydrating hand products. This includes lotions, moisturizers, or hand creams. Always apply the product after handwashing or doing household chores (such as laundry or dishwashing).
When choosing the best moisturizing hand products, always look for the following ingredients:
- Glycerin
- Urea
- Ceramides
- Hyaluronic acid
- Aquaporins
However, watch out for these ingredients that may cause more damage:
- Fragrances
- Dyes
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Parabens
Treat Cracked Hands with Overnight Cures
Overnight treatments are helpful for dry and cracked hands as the skin naturally repairs itself during the sleep cycle. Using night creams helps enhance the cells’ healing process.
Before going to bed, apply a good amount of petroleum jelly or hand cream and let it settle in overnight. It is best to massage it on damp skin as it absorbs better. Additionally, wearing soft gloves or socks will lock moisture in, ensuring the product does not rub off.
Wear Protective Gloves
Wearing gloves protect the hands from further abrasions and exposure to harmful substances. It would be a good habit to use cleaning gloves when washing the dishes or doing the laundry.
Gloves guarantee the skin’s healing process. It defends the hands from the harsh ingredients of cleaning supplies. Protective gloves also prevent sponges and cleaning brushes scratching the hands.
Get a Prescription if Needed
Mild cases of dry hands can be treated with home remedies, but for severely cracked skin, it is best to see a doctor.
Signs for severe cases of dry and cracked hands include:
- Intense itching
- Inflammation
- Extreme irritation
- Redness and bleeding
These symptoms may lead to other complications if neglected. It can also worsen preexisting skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. If home remedies remain ineffective, it is best to see a doctor to get treatment for severely dry and cracked hands.
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