Dry Hands

Rather than a health problem, dryness of hands is more or less a cosmetic concern. However, it can be unpleasant in looks and even touch. Even though, dry winter weather is found to be one of the common causes for dry skin, especially dry hands, some people experience this condition throughout the year.

Symptoms and Causes

Dry hands are found to be rough and prone to crack easily. The chapped skin on the hands may snag on clothes and hair. Apart from looking unpleasant, the dry, cracked hands may feel unpleasant to touch. As mentioned above, it is common for people to develop the condition during winters. However, some people have this condition for other reasons too. Apart from the dry winter weather, the most common causes is lack of moisture. It can be either due to reduced water intake or the inability of the sebaceous glands to produce adequate sebum, that locks in the moisture. Repeated hand washing is another cause for this condition. The chemicals in soaps can strip off the natural oils on the skin. Even, household detergents and cleaners can make the hands dry, if used regularly. Extremely dry hands can also be caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells. Rough work, that involves the use of hands can be another reason for the condition.

How to Cure Dry Hands

If dry weather is causing the problem, then, avoid exposure to such weather and provide sufficient moisture to the skin by drinking lots of fluids. In case of lack of moisture, again, you have to consume more water. At least two to three liters of water per day is required by the human body. Apart from drinking water, moisturize the skin, after washing the hands. You may also apply petroleum jelly or Vaseline on the hands, before sleep and keep it overnight. Reduce unnecessary hand washing with soap. If it is unavoidable, go for moisturizing hand soap. A mixture of one tablespoon almond oil and a cup of buttermilk can be an effective dry hands home remedy. Mix them well and massage the hands with the mixture. Another solution is vitamin E, which can be applied on the hands on a regular basis. Aloe vera gel is also one of the remedies for this condition. If you have dry hands, then, avoid exposure of the hands to household cleaners and detergents. Otherwise, use rubber gloves, while handling such substances. Some skin care products can affect the normal functioning of the sebaceous glands, so, avoid use of such products. If the air inside your home is very dry, use a humidifier to prevent your skin from getting dry. Some people suggest use of lukewarm water, for washing dry hands. It is said that lukewarm water is good for preventing dryness of hands.

Regular skin care, along with a balanced diet and good intake of water is necessary for a healthy skin. Apart from that, you have to prevent the above said causes, that can result in dryness of hands. As mentioned above, dry hands with symptoms like itching, bleeding, scaling and redness, need medical attention. In such cases, the above said remedies may not work. However, if the symptom persists you better consult a medical professional.