Hand Creams: Do You Really Need Them?

It’s no secret that while frequent handwashing has several benefits (primarily life-saving ones!), it also is one of the major culprits behind dry hands. With this habit now a part of our new way of life, the global market size for hand creamsis expected to reach P655.6 million by 2027. The product has become a new everyday essential and it looks like it’s here to stay.

The American Academy of Dermatologists notes that even when you start experiencing hand dryness, you should continue to wash your hands regularly throughout the day. This helps remove viruses, as well as any harmful bacteria or germs that can penetrate cracked skin.

To soothe dryness, the site recommends using hand creams that are fragrance-free and dye-free, which are less irritating to chapped skin. The AAD also approves of applying hand cream after using hand sanitizer, which can also be very drying on the skin.

A study by BMC Dermatology published in the National Institutes of Health also supports the use of hand creams, stating that it reduces both skin dryness and roughness. The study was conducted on health workers who had experienced bouts with contact dermatitis, the most common occupational disease in their field due to hand washing.

The past couple of years have seen a prevalence of contact dermatitis cases even among non-healthcare workers. A 2020 Singapore-based study in the National Library of Medicine shows how various forms of dermatitis from handwashing and alcohol rubs have become an emerging problem. While hand moisturizer can help prevent dryness, it might not be enough. Here are other ways to help your dry hands out.

• Use a humidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air and is beneficial for several medical conditions, including dry skin. Sleeping with a humidifier can help your skin retain moisture and improve symptoms of dryness.

• Wash with lukewarm water. Do you wash your hands with warm water? This can also contribute to your dry hands. Wash your hands with lukewarm or room temperature water instead.

• Skip the hand dryer. Hand dryers in mall restrooms are a convenient way to dry hands, but the hot air can cause moisture to evaporate from the skin. Instead, use a paper towel and apply a hand cream while your skin is still slightly damp.

• Avoid scratchy fabrics. Fabrics like wool or those that have designs that can snag on the skin, such as embroidery, can promote irritation. While your hands are dry, choosingsmoother fabrics, like cotton, linen, or silk for beddings to avoid itching.

• Use a gentle handwash. Switching to skin-caring handwash can help alleviate dry skin symptoms and add moisture to your hands. Dove Deeply Nourishing Hand Wash nourishes skin up to 10 layers deep with ¼ moisturizing cream, leaving them soft and smooth after every use.

Help your dry hands out by using hand creams and observing the tips above. If your dry hands persist and start to itch or become inflamed, consult with your dermatologist immediately.