Not once a day? Dermatologists reveal proper hand cream routine
How often to apply hand cream (photo: Freepik)
To keep hands soft and protect the skin from dryness, it’s recommended to use hand cream several times a day. The optimal frequency depends on skin condition and the season, according to Womens Health.
Best ingredients
It’s easy to get lost online when buying hand creams. Choose products that contain:
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Protective agents – including petroleum jelly, which forms a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and prevent loss.
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Emollients – ceramides, dimethicone, and squalane help soften and smooth the skin.
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Humectants – glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and urea attract moisture to the skin.
Can you use too much hand cream?
Dermatologist Serena Mraz explained that it’s almost impossible to overuse hand cream. Regular handwashing removes moisture throughout the day, so overhydration is not a concern.
Using too much cream is more of a nuisance than a problem. If you apply more than a pea-sized amount, your hands may feel slippery. You can wipe off excess, share with a friend, or spread it over your hands.
When to apply
Because you shower, wash your hands, and do chores like laundry and dishwashing, your hands are exposed to water, detergents, and irritants. Hand sanitizers can also dry out the skin.
It’s best to apply hand cream at least once in the morning and before bed. Keep a jar on your nightstand for convenience.
Is hand cream only for hands?
There’s nothing wrong with using hand cream on the whole surface of hands, feet, body, neck, or face. But since it’s thicker than lotion, it can cause breakouts on facial skin.
Thickened skin on the feet is common in summer, and hand cream can provide intensive hydration. For maximum effect, after applying a rich hand cream, wear cotton socks to help it absorb better.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
