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“Are You Really Applying Hand Cream Correctly?”

3 May, 2025

Many people believe that frequent exposure to cleaning agents and environmental factors can be mitigated by simply washing their hands or applying hand cream to keep their hands soft and youthful. But are you using enough hand cream, and are you using it correctly?

1. Protect Your Hands from Environmental Factors

Hand Washing

If you’re regularly exposed to cleaning agents, avoid using antibacterial soaps as the triclosan they contain can be harsh on the skin and cause allergies. Wash your hands with warm water instead of hot, and pat your hands dry with a towel rather than using a hand dryer.

Wash your hands with warm water

Wear Gloves

Protect your hands from environmental factors and cleaning agents by wearing gloves:

Use insulated gloves in cold weather and sun-protective gloves outdoors.
Wear rubber gloves when using cleaning agents.
Don gardening gloves when working in the yard.

Wear gloves to protect your hands

2. Proper Hand Care

Moisturize

Moisturize your hands twice a day

Apply moisturizer at least twice a day – in the morning and at night. If you have dry skin, moisturize immediately after washing your hands. Use a pea-sized amount of cream and rub your hands together to cover both hands, fingers, and cuticles. For very dry hands, use more cream if needed. Look for moisturizers rich in vitamin E to nourish your skin and nails. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Exfoliate

Exfoliate your hands once a week

Exfoliate your hands once a week to remove dead skin cells. You can use a hand scrub and gently massage it into your skin. Alternatively, you can use exfoliating creams if you’re short on time.

Sunscreen

Apply sunscreen to your hands

Sunscreen is not just for outdoor use. Even when you’re indoors, sunlight can still affect your skin. So, feel free to use sunscreen when you’re inside, and reapply before going outdoors.

3. How to Apply Hand Cream

How to apply hand cream

Wash your hands with warm water and dry them thoroughly. Take a pea-sized amount of cream and massage it into your hands, focusing on the palms, fingers, and cuticles, until it’s fully absorbed.

Gently massage your hands until the cream is fully absorbed. Apply hand cream regularly, especially after washing your hands, coming into contact with chemicals, or before going out in the sun.

4. Some Things to Keep in Mind

Some things to keep in mind when using hand cream

Avoid hand creams with artificial fragrances or colors, as these can irritate the skin.
Store your hand cream in a cool, dry place.
Always patch test hand cream on a small area of skin before applying it to your entire hand.

By taking these steps and being mindful of the environmental factors that can affect your skin, you can keep your hands soft, youthful, and protected.