How to combat dry hands in the winter months?

Dry hands in the winter months are often caused by a combination of external factors associated with cold weather and internal conditions that lead to dehydration. One of the main causes is the low air humidity, characteristic of the winter season. Cold air contains less moisture, and when it warms up indoors, it becomes even drier . This combination then causes excessive evaporation of moisture from the skin of the hands, which leads to their more intensive drying.

However, the reason may also be the more frequent use of warm water when washing, which contributes to the breakdown of natural sebum from the skin , or the use of soap with irritating substances – however, hand washing is key to disease prevention, so we definitely do not recommend eliminating this act in any way. When buying soap, always make sure it does not contain:

• Sulfates: such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES). In sensitive individuals, they can intensify the drying of the skin.
• Perfumes and some dyes: substances added to soaps for fragrance and color may contain allergens and irritants that negatively affect sensitive skin.
• Triclosan: this is an antimicrobial substance that can disrupt the natural balance of the skin’s microbiome at higher concentrations. Today, the use of this substance in cosmetics is largely restricted in the EU.
• Parabens: preservatives that can cause allergic reactions and subsequent irritation.

Last but not least, it can be  the cold weather itself , which affects blood circulation and thus reduces blood flow to the limbs, including the hands, thereby reducing the supply of nutrients and hydration to the skin.

• You can learn how to take care of your body in the winter months in the article Skin care in winter: 8 tips for healthy and hydrated skin !

The importance of hydration

As is clear from the reasons outlined above, sufficient hydration plays the most important role here. This ensures the optimal condition and overall health of the skin, i.e. a defensive and functional barrier between the body and the external environment. When your skin is well hydrated, it has a better ability to resist external stimuli such as bacteria, viruses and harmful substances. In addition, it maintains its elasticity and resilience, which helps prevent various skin problems, including cracking, itching and irritation.

• Using collagen to improve skin and joints – does it make sense? You will get the answer to exactly this question in this article!

A lack of hydration, whether external (body lotion or butter) or internal (adequate drinking regimen), can therefore lead to a number of problems, including dryness, peeling, and in extreme cases also the appearance of cracked areas and painful irritations. The importance of nutrition increases even more in periods when the skin is exposed to adverse conditions, most often in winter. Regular care is therefore a key preventive measure and an investment in the future, guaranteeing healthy and flexible skin, protected from external influences.

 

6 tips against dry hands

1. Moisturize immediately and after each wash: even if you use gentler soaps, you are depriving your skin of some of its natural oils. And since they are the ones that help retain moisture, it is essential to replace them regularly. Vilgain Hand Cream containing chamomile extract or oat silk can also help with this  .
2. Use night treatments: night treatments are an excellent way to revive or prevent dry skin. A great tip for soft and nourished hands is a night mask, which you can create very easily using vaseline, gloves or socks – thanks to the “capture” the cream is better absorbed.
3. Use more nourishing ingredients: if your skin reacts to the winter season by being hypersensitive and irritated, you should try to consider reaching for a more nourishing product. For example, the solution can be Vilgain body butter with organic shea butter, coconut oil and cocoa butter (which are occlusive ingredients that provide a physical barrier that keeps moisture in the skin). For very dry skin, your doctor can help you with a prescription for a special cream containing lactic acid or urea.
4. Reduce the temperature of the water: while hot water may feel nice and soothing in the winter, lukewarm water will probably be kinder to the skin on your hands – according to Baylor College of Medicine, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils faster than lukewarm water (which is usually around 98.6°F/37°C) and may even damage it.
5. Hydration from within: this point was slightly outlined above, but a sufficient drinking regime of water or unsweetened teas is an essential step in maintaining healthy skin and skin. A healthy adult needs approximately 35 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day (ie a person weighing 50 kilograms approximately 1.7 liters, 60 kilograms 2.1 liters, 70 kilograms 2.4 liters and 80 kilograms 2.8 liters).
6. Wear gloves: the best barrier against damage is physical, i.e. gloves. And this applies not only to outdoor ones, but also to silicone ones (for example, when washing dishes).

What to take from it?

Dry hands are the bane of every winter season. Not only is it bothersome in terms of unsightly appearance, cracked and sensitive skin can also be painful and disrupt your normal day. It is therefore crucial to pay attention to your hydration routine , whether in the form of a sufficient drinking regime, thicker cream or wearing gloves.