You know the importance of taking care of the skin on your face to protect it against sun damage, and fine lines and wrinkles. However, as a part of your body that is often neglected, the skin on your hands can show just as much wear and tear as the skin on your face— leaving you with sunspots and wrinkles. So, how can you take better care of the skin on your hands? Read on to learn more.
Sunscreen It Up
One of the last places you may think to apply sunscreen is your hands. However, it’s one of the most important. Your hands are equally as exposed to the sun as your face— especially when you’re doing things like driving. We encourage our patients to apply a thick body sunscreen on their hands every morning and then reapply it throughout the day.
Moisturize
The skin on your hands is especially susceptible to becoming dehydrated due to things like sun exposure, wind exposure, and excessive hand washing. Try to keep a moisturizing hand lotion next to your hand soap as a reminder to put it on after you wash your hands. Additionally, try carrying a handle salve or cream in your purse or backpack.
Consider Hand Sanitizer
If you have kids or work with kids, you are likely a germaphobe and wash your hands more than a dozen times a day. Even though hand washing is the best way to protect against the spread of germs, it can also dry your hands out almost instantly. In between regular hand washings, consider using a hand sanitizer instead. Containing rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer is less hard on your skin but will get your hands just as clean.
Having healthy skin on your hands requires a little bit of work on your end. By wearing sunscreen, moisturizing, and alternating between hand washing and sunscreen, you can have better skin. To learn more, contact Dr. Benjamin Dunkley’s office today to schedule an appointment!
