By Donna V. Scaglione
Do your hands feel as rough and grainy as concrete? It’s that time of year when the combination of cold outdoor air and dry indoor air wreak havoc on our skin, particularly our hard-working hands. Don’t let them suffer. Considering all they do for us, it’s time to smooth their cracks and calm their angry red patches.
1. Avoid excessive hand washing
These days we’re been conditioned to frequently wash our hands to avoid any germs, but excessive hand washing, particularly with hot water, can be drying and irritating. Soap and water can strip skin of its natural oils and result in dried, chapped hands that can crack and bleed if left untreated, warns WebMD.com. Balance good hygiene while limiting over-washing. And cleanse with mild soap in tepid, not hot, water.
