After an era of obsessively applying and reapplying hand cream to avoid dry hands caused by sanitiser, are we still carrying mini hand creams in every bag, car, and at our desks? And, do we really need it?
With constant exposure to environmental aggressors, we often neglect to care for our delicate hands and fail to recognise the significance of hand cream in maintaining soft, healthy hands.
If you are still asking yourself if you need hand cream, the answer is yes! Here’s why:
Moisture and hydration
Our hands endure frequent washing, and exposure to harsh chemicals when doing daily tasks like dishes, cold weather, and dry environments, which can strip away their natural moisture. Hand creams act as a shield, providing a protective barrier and preventing moisture loss. Regular application of hand cream keeps the skin hydrated, preventing dryness, cracking, and discomfort.
Tip: Apply hand cream or a moisturiser each time you wash your hands.
Nourishment and repair
The skin on our hands is thinner and more delicate compared to other parts of our body. Thus, it requires extra nourishment and care. Hand creams are formulated with ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, natural oils, and vitamins, which penetrate deeply to replenish the skin, restore elasticity, and promote the healing of minor cuts, wounds, or irritation.
Anti-ageing benefits
Ageing is an inevitable process and our hands are one of the first areas to reveal signs of ageing. As we age, our hands tend to lose fat and the skin loses its elasticity. This results in fine lines, wrinkles and age spots due to being exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays.
The regular use of hand cream with SPF protection can shield against photo-ageing, reducing the appearance of age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. Additionally, ingredients like collagen, peptides, and antioxidants found in certain hand creams can promote skin firmness and youthfulness.
Prevention of skin conditions
Dry, chapped hands are prone to various skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Hand creams with soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, chamomile, or oatmeal, can alleviate itchiness, redness, and inflammation associated with these conditions. By maintaining a healthy moisture balance, hand creams can help prevent these skin issues from arising in the first place.
However, if you do suffer from conditions like eczema on your hands, it’s important to use a moisturiser that won’t aggravate your skin any further.
A luxurious self-care ritual
Beyond the functional benefits, applying hand cream offers a moment of indulgence and self-care. The act of massaging the cream onto your hands promotes relaxation, improves blood circulation, and relieves stress. The pleasant scents and textures of hand creams can uplift your mood and provide a sensory experience that nourishes not only your skin but also your overall well-being.
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Shop hand creams
Sorbet Firming Hand and Nail Cream Age Control: R32.99 – Clicks
W-Beauty Hand and Nail Cream: R79.95 – Woolworths
Eucerin Hyaluron Filler Age Spot Correcting Hand Cream with SPF: R229.99
Skin Functional Restorative Hand Cream: R150 – Skin Functional
Our hands are our constant companions and they deserve our care, attention, and appreciation. By incorporating hand cream into our daily routine, we can safeguard their health, beauty, and youthfulness. So, let’s embrace the importance of hand cream and lavish our hands with the love and care they truly deserve.
Remember, healthy hands are beautiful hands!
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Featured Image: Getty
