A Dermatologist's Top Tips for Dry Winter Hands
As the winter chill sets in, many of us start to notice our hands feeling tight, flaky, and sometimes even painfully cracked. Dry hands are a common problem patients bring up during this season. The cold weather, dry indoor air, and frequent handwashing to ward off winter germs all contribute to dehydrated skin.
As a board-certified dermatologist based in Lee's Summit, Missouri, I want to share my top tips for keeping your hands healthy, hydrated, and comfortable all winter long.
1. Hydrate From the Inside Out
While it’s not a magical cure, drinking plenty of water can help your skin maintain its natural moisture barrier. Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time in heated, dry environments.
2. Choose a Gentle Cleanser
Harsh soaps can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for a mild, fragrance-free hand soap that’s labeled “moisturizing” or “gentle.” Ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and ceramides are great for maintaining hydration while cleansing.
3. Moisturize Immediately After Washing
After washing your hands, gently pat them dry with a towel, leaving them slightly damp. Apply a rich hand cream or ointment immediately to lock in the moisture. Look for products containing ingredients like:
Shea butter
Petrolatum
Dimethicone
Hyaluronic acid
4. Use a Nighttime Hand Treatment
Before bed, slather on a thick layer of a healing ointment or balm. Products like petroleum jelly or a heavy-duty hand cream are ideal. For an added boost, wear a pair of cotton gloves overnight to help the product absorb fully and protect your bedding.
5. Wear Gloves
Protecting your hands from the elements is essential. Wear insulated gloves when you’re outside in the cold, and use rubber or latex gloves while doing dishes or cleaning. This prevents water and cleaning agents from stripping away your skin’s natural oils.
6. Avoid Overwashing
While hand hygiene is important, overwashing can exacerbate dryness. If you’re not dealing with visible dirt, use an alcohol-free hand sanitizer with hydrating ingredients like glycerin instead of soap and water.
7. Invest in a Humidifier
Indoor heating can make the air incredibly dry, which saps moisture from your skin. Using a humidifier in your home—especially in your bedroom—can help maintain a healthy level of humidity and keep your skin hydrated.
8. Exfoliate Gently
If your hands feel rough and flaky, a gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and allow your moisturizer to penetrate better. Use a mild scrub or a soft washcloth no more than once a week to avoid irritation.
9. Know When to Seek Help
If your hands are cracked, bleeding, or painful, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis can mimic winter dryness but may require specific treatments like prescription creams or ointments.
Taking care of your hands in the winter doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating a few mindful habits into your routine, you can keep your skin healthy and comfortable, no matter how low the temperatures drop. If you’re struggling with persistent dryness or have questions about the best products for your skin, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists in Lee's Summit, Missouri.
Stay warm, stay moisturized, and here’s to happy hands this winter!
Dr. Brea Sturm is a board-certified dermatologist at Cornerstone Dermatology & Surgery Group in Lee’s Summit. Call 816-287-1528 to schedule your appoitment with Dr. Sturm.