We're all washing our hands a lot — and we're happy to do it, especially given what a big difference it can make for everyone. The only caveat? Well... our hands are getting drier and drier (and they're bearing a closer and closer resemblance to that of a crypt keeper's, too).
As Paula's Choice Director of Skin Care Knowledge, Deborah Kilgore puts it, "Though frequent hand washing and using hand sanitizer are effective ways of maintaining hygiene, they can strip skin of vital moisture." Read on for some of her — and some of our own — top tips on keeping your hands moisturized; even when you're washing them about a 100 times per day.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control at CDC.gov or the World Health Organization at Who.int for the latest information on the coronavirus and learn what you can do to stop the spread.
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Keep hand cream on the ready — in your purse next to your hand sanitizer, by your sinks, etc. If your hands are really hurting, try to be as judicious with your hand cream application as you are with your hand washing. Kilgore recommends the Paula's Choice Daily Replenishing Body Cream, $22, as it's fragrance-free and packed with antioxidants and ceramides.
There are so many gentle soap and hand sanitizer options out there that'll still keep your hands squeaky-clean. (One of our current favorite hand sanitizers is the EO Everyone Hand Sanitizer Spray in Lavender + Aloe, $17.99 for six.)
"If hands need an extra boost of hydration, add an emollient oil such as a skin care oil or even extra virgin olive oil to your favorite moisturizer," suggests Kilgore. We've also had good luck mixing in a little Aquaphor for an occlusive boost at nighttime.
It's time for the big guns now. If your regular hand cream isn't cutting it, you may want to look into an extra thick option. We like the CeraVe Diabetics' Dry Skin Relief Hand and Foot Cream, $9.99, as a budget-friendly no-frills, hard-working option.