The hands are in the front line, subjected daily to external aggressions. Several factors make them more fragile and accelerate skin aging: the cold, the sun, and the use of chemical products.
Why are hands fragile?
The skin on the hands is extremely thin and fragile. Naturally dry, it contains few sebaceous glands (glands that help produce the natural protective film), making the hands more vulnerable.
The epidermis of the hands is poorly moisturized. The synthesis of natural moisturizing factors is low (4 to 5 times lower than on the face). It leads to almost continuous dehydration, which requires the use of products capable of compensating for this lack and therefore stopping the acceleration of hand aging.
Factors that accelerate the aging of the hands
The cold is the main enemy: the cold reduces the skin’s natural defenses and alters its protective film. Dry skin becomes more vulnerable, and the sebaceous glands see their secretion slowed down by the cold. Irritation and chapping appear. Blood flow is slowed down, and the less well-nourished skin shrivels to fight against the drop in temperature.
Household products: detergents alter the protective film of the epidermis and make the hands more fragile. The repeated use of these products and the frequent contact of the hands with water increases the risks of bacterial attacks.
The sun: like the cold, the sun is also harmful to the fragile skin of the hands. It dries out and withers the skin.
To put an end to damaged hands
Use moisturizing creams concentrated in glycerin that leave a protective film on the skin’s surface. Coat your hands with petroleum jelly or paraffin, and wear cotton gloves that you keep overnight. Your hands will be as good as new in the morning. Cream your hands with cold creams all winter long.
Hands and skin conditions
The hands tend to be drier than the rest of the body, leading to skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. We constantly wash our hands (after going to the bathroom, before cooking…) using hand soap or dish soap that may be harsh for the skin and cause an allergic reaction.
To avoid skin conditions on your hand, wear gloves when doing housework involving harsh chemicals such as bleach. Avoid washing your hand with dish soap and invest in a mild soap that you can use several times daily without drying your skin. Always keep a hand lotion at hand and apply it several times a day, ideally every time you wash your hands. Ensure your hand lotion has a clean composition without any allergenic ingredients.