Covid Hands

We have experienced a pandemic, and this has introduced increased hand washing and hand sanitizer use into our daily lives. From this increase we have started experiencing increased dryness in our hands as we haven’t increased the aftercare of our hands after washing.   
  
Here’s a few tips on how to take better care of your hands and nails.   

HANDS  

The outmost layer of our skin is composed of oils and wax that act as a shield from all the nasties out there and maintains the natural moisture in our skin. When we wash our hands or use hand sanitizer this breaks down the natural barrier on our skin. Not applying hand cream after hand washing can lead to dryness, redness, itching, and in severe cases cracks in the skin. Pre-existing dermatologic conditions like eczema can worsen these symptoms.    

Damaged or Chapped Skin  

Creams and ointments are better for your skin than lotions. Avoid fragranced products as they may further irritate your skin or if you have sensitive skin.   

Petrolatum (Vaseline) is the most effective moisturizer to use.   

Other treatments  

At night before going to bed apply a thick moisturizer to your hands then cover with cotton gloves to increase absorption. You can also consider using a moisturizing mask for your hands. These are glove like masks that are applied for around 20 minutes then washed off.     

NAILS  

For those who work with their hands or experience frequent hand washing have a more increased chance of their nail becoming brittle. Here are some tips to help keep your nails strong:   

• Use a nail strengthener: Apply a protective topcoat at least once a week.   
• Hair, Skin & Nails supplements: supplements may help strengthen your nails. Biotin has been known to help with nail health. Not suitable for those who are pregnant.   

• Reduce use of harsh nail treatments: limit the use of gel and acrylic nails as well as acetone nail polish removers. These strip the top layers of your nail therefore weakening them. You can find acetone free nail polish remover in most retailers.   
• Apply moisturizer after drying your nails this will help seal in moisture. Oils in moisturizers are water-repellant yet moisturizing like almond, vitamin E, and coconut oils.   

Featured products:   

Swisse Hair Skin Nails+: A premium quality beauty formula based on scientific evidence. Supports collagen production, helps maintain glossy hair, radiant skin, and healthy nails.  

Sukin Hand and Nail Cream: Our non-greasy Signature Hand & Nail Cream will hydrate and protect dry hands while caring for nails and cuticles from added Hydrolyzed Soy Protein. Hands will feel nourished, soothed, and softened from Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and Borage Oil.