There is no doubt about it, winter can be harsh on our hands. The cold air outside and dry heat inside strip away moisture, making our skin prone to dryness, cracking, and irritation. This is made worse by frequent handwashing, which, while essential for preventing the spread of germs, can exacerbate these issues.
But fear not! You can maintain clean, healthy hands throughout the winter with the right approach. This blog will teach you how to wash your hands effectively without over-drying them.
The Importance of Proper Handwashing, Even in Winter
Even though dry skin is a concern, handwashing is still crucial, especially during cold and flu season. Here’s why:
- Removes Germs: Handwashing eliminates viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens that can cause illness.
- Prevents Spread of Illness: By washing our hands, we stop germs from spreading to ourselves and others.
- Reduces Risk of Infection: Clean hands help prevent infections from entering our bodies through our eyes, nose, and mouth.
The Ideal Winter Handwashing Technique: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for effective handwashing that minimizes dryness:
- Wet Your Hands: Use lukewarm water. Hot water can strip away natural oils more quickly.
- Apply Soap: Use a gentle, moisturizing soap. Avoid harsh, antibacterial soaps unless specifically recommended by a doctor.
- Lather Thoroughly: Rub your hands together vigorously, creating a lather that covers all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub for at Least 20 Seconds: Hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice to ensure you wash for long enough. Make sure you scrub around your fingernails; germs love to hang out there!
- Rinse Well: Rinse your hands thoroughly under lukewarm running water.
- Dry Gently: Pat your hands dry with a soft, clean towel. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can irritate the skin.
- Moisturize Immediately: Apply a generous amount of hand cream or lotion while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture.
Choosing the Right Soap for Winter Handwashing
The type of soap you use makes a big difference. Look for these features:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Soaps with ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or aloe vera help hydrate the skin.
- Fragrance-Free: Fragrances can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin.
- Mild Formula: Avoid harsh chemicals and antibacterial agents unless necessary.
Combating Dryness: Post-Wash Care and Prevention
Handwashing is only half the battle. Here’s how to keep your hands moisturized and prevent dryness:
- Moisturize Frequently: Apply hand cream after every wash and several times throughout the day. Keep a tube of lotion at your desk, in your bag, and by the sink as reminders.
- Use a Hand Cream with Occlusives: Occlusive ingredients like petrolatum, beeswax, or dimethicone create a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss.
- Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from the cold and wind by wearing gloves when you go outside. You should also wear gloves when washing dishes by hand to protect your skin from harsh dish detergents.
- Use a Humidifier: Increase the humidity in your home to combat dry air.
- Overnight Treatment: For severely dry hands, apply a thick layer of hand cream before bed and wear cotton gloves overnight. This allows the moisturizer to deeply penetrate the skin.
Summary: Clean and Comfortable Hands All Winter Long
Maintaining clean hands is vital for health, even during the winter months. By using the correct handwashing technique, selecting a moisturizing soap, and diligently moisturizing afterwards, you can keep your hands germ-free, soft, and comfortable throughout the season. Don’t let dry skin discourage you from protecting yourself and others!
How The Derm NP Can Help
The Derm NP is a unique dermatology practice that provides online dermatology consultations. Laura Collins, APRN, ANP-BC, DCNP, ACTTP, the provider at The Derm NP, provides exceptional dermatological care. Her vast experience and enthusiasm for the dermatology field means that you are receiving expert care by a practitioner who loves her specialty and continuously seeks educational opportunities to provide her patients with the most innovative treatments possible.
We provide care for non-urgent dermatological conditions via telehealth visits, through which we strive to provide top-notch care that considers your schedule. Contact us at (630) 233-9767 or thedermnp@thedermnp.com for an appointment to help you look your very best.