Dry, cracked or chapped hands are a common problem in winter and often difficult to solve.
No more spending the day slathering on hand creams. Dr Anil Sharma, dermatologist, shares his best advice, to do just before bed, to deeply hydrate your skin and put an end to dry, cracked or even chapped hands.
First of all, “you should choose an oil rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that promotes the formation of protective membranes for the skin against free radicals and cellular damage“, he explains to Express.uk. The best oil is jojoba oil: it is the most complete because it contains vitamin E, vitamin A and vitamin B, the three allies of hydration. We will brush it on the entire hand: the palm, the back then the fingers If your hands are extremely dry, you can combine this oil with a moisturizing cream enriched with vitamin E or a formula. of shea butter or aloe vera.
Second step: cuticles. “If your cuticles are flaky, dry or hard, consider using coconut, argan or sweet almond oil” suggests the expert. He recommends applying a few drops around the edge of the nail using a cotton pad and massaging gently for a few seconds to stimulate blood circulation and facilitate absorption. So that these products penetrate well and act deeply, the dermatologist advises wearing a pair of thin cotton gloves throughout the night.This helps retain the body’s natural heat, allowing the oil to penetrate even deeper, hydrating and softening the skin overnight, and waking you up with soft hands..”
In addition to this routine to be carried out regularly, he advises against “soaps too drying” to wash your hands. Instead, “favor soaps based on glycerin, ceramides or hyaluronic acid“. For a natural option, use soaps with avocado oil, shea butter or coconut oil which provide effective moisturizing benefits. The expert recommends patting your hands dry rather than rub them to avoid skin irritation.