How To Reverse Aging Hand Care: 8 Simple Steps
It’s that time of year again, when the weather starts to cool and the leaves begin to change color. It’s also a time when we start thinking about how our skin is changing with age, as it becomes dryer, more wrinkled and less elastic. So what can we do? There are many options for reversing aging hands, and today we’re going to cover eight simple steps.
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Why Do Hands Change as You Get Older?
The loss of collagen and elastin, which help to keep skin looking plump and firm, also contributes to the visible changes in your hands as you age. A collagen supplement is a great starting point, but there are also a few simple steps you can follow too.
1. Wear gloves when doing household chores
When you wear gloves while doing household chores, not only do they protect your hands from the harsh chemicals and detergents used in many cleaning products, but they also help to prevent dryness and irritation that can lead to premature aging. The oils on our skin act as a barrier against the environment and when these natural oils are stripped away by chemical-laden cleansers and other abrasive materials, it leaves our skin susceptible to damage. Therefore, wearing gloves is an essential part of keeping your hands healthy and looking youthful for years to come.
2. Use sunscreen on your hands
In addition to applying sunscreen to your hands, you should also wear protective clothing such as gloves when going outside. This will help further protect your hands from the sun’s UV rays and reduce the risk of sunburn or other skin damage. It is important that you use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for optimal protection against UV radiation. Reapply every two hours if you are spending extended periods in the sun, or after swimming or sweating heavily. Additionally, be sure not to forget about areas like knuckles and finger webs which are often missed when applying sunscreen but can still get damaged by too much exposure to the sun’s harmful rays. Remember that taking care of your hands now will pay off down the road by preventing signs of premature aging later on!
3. Moisturize regularly
Make sure to select a hand cream or lotion with natural ingredients if possible, as this will help nourish and protect your skin. Be sure to apply the product generously to your hands and cuticles several times a day; pay particular attention to any areas that are especially dry or cracked. If you find yourself in an environment where frequent washing of your hands is necessary (e.g., healthcare settings), use a moisturizing soap instead of regular soaps which can strip away moisture from your skin and make it more prone to aging. Additionally, always follow up with a generous application of hand cream or lotion after washing your hands.
4. Exfoliate your hands
Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells from the surface of your hands, which can leave them looking smoother and more youthful. You don’t need to buy an expensive exfoliator; you can simply make a homemade version with equal parts sugar and olive oil. Rub the mixture over your hands in circular motions for about two minutes, then rinse off with warm water. You should do this once or twice a week for best results, but remember to be gentle as scrubbing too hard may irritate the skin on your hands.
5. Avoid hot water
The heat strips away the natural oils, leaving behind rough and dry skin. To avoid this damage, use lukewarm water instead when washing your hands. It’s also important to remember that you should apply moisturizer immediately after washing; doing so will help keep the moisture in and protect your skin from further damage. Taking just a few moments to make sure you’re using lukewarm water and applying moisturizer afterwards can go a long way in keeping your hands looking young and healthy!
6. Protect your hands from the cold
Drink plenty of water throughout the day and try to avoid sugary drinks as they can dry out your skin. Additionally, you should consider taking hot baths or showers in order to increase blood circulation and keep your hands healthy. Regularly exfoliating your hands will help remove dead skin cells that may be contributing to dehydration, while using a moisturizer with natural ingredients like Shea Butter or Aloe Vera can further protect against moisture loss.
7. Avoid biting your nails
Biting your nails not only damages the skin around your nails, but it can also lead to premature aging. The continual biting of your cuticles and nail beds can make them dry and brittle, making them look older than they should. Additionally, the bacteria from your mouth that come in contact with broken or damaged skin can increase the risk of infection. To break this habit you might try using a nail biting deterrent like a bitter tasting polish or enrolling in therapy to help you address deeper issues causing this behavior.
8. Get regular manicures
Getting regular manicures can help keep your hands looking youthful and healthy. This will reveal fresh, soft new skin beneath and make your hands look brighter and more vibrant. Additionally, manicures involve applying a moisturizer to your hand which will help keep them hydrated and prevent dryness or cracking in the winter months. Lastly, getting a manicure regularly will ensure that nails are kept trimmed and filed properly, leaving you with neat-looking nails that won’t snag or tear at fabrics.
