Winter can be a challenge for our health, with many of us heading indoors and turning the heating up. Besides the increased risks of colds and flu (see our blog on this here)dry skin is an issue we frequently asked about during the colder months, especially our hands. We explore some of the reasons why our hands dry out in winter and what to do to prevent it.
Understanding our skin:
The skin has three distinct layers. The innermost layer provides insulation, energy storage, and shock absorption mainly from subcutaneous fat. Next is the Dermis, which contains blood vessels, nerves, sweat and oil glands, as well as hair follicles. The top layer which is what we see is called the Epidermis, the skin's main protective barrier and the level where drying occurs. It consists of layers of cells similar to roof tiles on a house and are constantly in transition, renewing itself about once a month.
The epidermal skin cells are held together by a lipid-rich "glue" that keeps the skin cells flat, smooth, and in place. Skin moisture is lost through these layers especially when the “glue” is loosened by over-cleansing, scrubbing, sun damage, or underlying medical conditions — or by winter's low humidity and the drying effects of indoor heat.
Low humidity
One of the main reasons why skin and specifically the hands tend to dry out in winter is because of low humidity. When the air is cold and dry, it sucks moisture out of the skin, leaving it feeling parched and flaky. This effect can be made worse by indoor heating systems, which can further reduce moisture in the air.
Frequent hand washing
During the winter months, it’s important to wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of colds and flu. However, frequent hand washing can also contribute to dryness. Harsh soaps, hot water, and how you dry your hands can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight.
Detergents and chemicals
In addition to hand soap, there are many other harsh chemicals that we come into contact with during the winter months that can contribute to dry skin. For example, many cleaning products contain strong chemicals that can be irritating to the skin
Cold temperatures
When the body is exposed to cold air it constricts blood vessels in the skin to conserve heat. This can make the skin look paler and feel drier. Additionally, when the skin is exposed to extreme cold (such as during outdoor winter sports), it can suffer from chapping and cracking.
Skin age
Dry skin becomes much more common with age. Often, it's the cumulative effect of sun exposure: sun damage results in thinner skin that doesn't retain moisture. The production of natural oils in the skin also slows with age.
So What Can You Do?
- Use a hand soap that is gentle on the skin and has built in moisturisers. This will limit the removal of natural oils and moisture from the skin, while the additional emollients will help rehydrate the skin.
- Check out our SaraSoft HB dermatologically tested foam soap that is ideal for dry or frail skin.
- If your hands are visibly clean then opt for a quality hand sanitiser with built in moisturisers to reduce your risk of getting sick.
- SMARTSAN S-7 Hand Sanitiser is highly effective, feels great with no sticky residue, and leaves your hands feeing great.
- Wear gloves when washing dishes as dishwashing detergents are designed to break down fats and oils so they will strip the natural oils and moisture from your hands.
- Use a moisturising hand cream regularly. Look for a cream that contains ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or jojoba oil, which can help to lock in moisture.
- Our Saraya NatraPower Hand Shield Moisturising Barrier Cream is ideal for this and provides over 4 hours of protection and helps your skin maintain its moisture.
- Avoid or at least limit time in hot showers and baths. Hot water can be very drying to the skin, so try to keep the temperature lukewarm instead.
- Shampoos are designed to remove oil from your hair and can aggravate dry skin. Try changing to a more sensitive hair shampoo.
- Drying your skin by patting dry rather than rubbing will reduce skin aggravation, and also help the skin epidermis layers retain moisture.
- Wear gloves in very cold conditions to reduce exposure.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your hands feeling soft and smooth all winter long.
