Extremely Dry Hands

Extremely dry hands and feet is one of the common problems experienced during winters. However, some people experience this condition, throughout the year. It can be uncomfortable and unpleasant for them as well as others. They may shy away from shaking hands or even touching their loved ones. Extremely dry hands can be caused by various factors. This article deals with the various aspects of extremely dry hands, including its causes and remedy.

What Causes Extremely Dry Hands?

One of the most common causes for extremely dry hands is lack of moisture, which can be caused by reduced intake of water or the inability of the skin cells to produce sebum. Sebum is the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin and is responsible for sealing in the moisture. As water intake is reduced, the moisture levels of the skin drops, making it dry. Another extremely dry skin cause is the habit of washing hands repeatedly. The chemicals in soap strip the skin of its natural oils, which are responsible for its suppleness. Regular exposure to harsh soaps, like, dish soap, household cleaners, especially those with bleaching agents, etc., may also lead to dry hands. Accumulation of dead skin cells is another cause for dry cracked hands. In this case, the dead skin cells form a layer over the skin surface blocking the absorption and retention of moisture. Dry climatic conditions may also cause dry hands. Most of the above said causes, which are also responsible for extremely dry hands in children, are easily preventable. The following are some extremely dry hands remedies and some tips and guidelines regarding prevention of this condition.

Remedies for Extremely Dry Hands

One of the easiest remedies for extremely dry hands is to prevent the cause before it creates problem for you. If you want to retain moisture on the skin, you have to drink lots of water as much as 7 - 8 liters a day. At least two liters of water is required by the body, per day. You have to avoid repeated hand washing, especially with soap. If you cannot avoid this, then, apply moisturizer, after hand washing. A moisturizing hand soap will be the best option for such people. Avoid exposure of the hands to harsh soap and household cleaners, or else, use rubber gloves, so as to protect your hands from getting dry. Avoid those skin care products that, may affect the normal functioning of the sebaceous glands. It is also suggested that applying aloe vera gel on the hands and keeping it overnight is beneficial for dry hands. Make sure to use a scrub occasionally, so that the dead skin cells get removed. Another extremely dry hands remedy is to apply Vaseline on the hands and keep it overnight for best results. Use a pair of cotton gloves, after applying Vaseline on the hands. You may replace Vaseline with vitamin E, which can be purchased as capsules. Using lukewarm water for washing hands is another method to counter extremely dry hands. Some people use humidifiers in their home, if the air inside home is very dry. This can also prevent the skin and hands from getting dry.

The above said extremely dry hands remedies are very easy and inexpensive too. However, if the dry chapped hands is accompanied by itching, redness, etc, it is better to seek medical attention, as it can be a symptom of some other problem. Otherwise, these remedies will help you in making your hands soft and supple.