Dry Hands 101: Tips on How to Treat Them

Let’s talk about dry hands—those uncomfortable, tight hands. Maybe your dry knuckles are cracking, or your dry palms and dry fingers are itching and flaky. It’s something we all deal with at some point, especially as seasons change. 

But here’s the thing—dry skin on hands doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. Once you know what causes dryness and how to heal it, you’ll be well on your way to softer, healthier skin. 

What Causes Dry Hands? 

So, what’s behind this dryness? A lot of things can strip the moisture from your skin—cold weather, washing your hands frequently, or even exposure to harsh chemicals. If you’re dealing with dry skin on hands regularly, conditions like eczema or psoriasis could also be at play. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check in with a doctor. 

Always keep an eye out for more serious symptoms. If your hands bring severe discomfort or show signs like swelling, bleeding, red streaks, or a honey-colored crust, seek medical help right away. 

And hey, if your feet are feeling just as rough as your hands, check out this blog post on how to treat cracked heels. Your hands and feet deserve equal love, right? 

Steer Clear of These Pitfalls 

When it comes to healing extremely dry hands, what you don’t do is just as important as what you do. So here are a few things to avoid: 

• Frequent hand washing. Yes, washing your hands is important, but overdoing it, especially with harsh soaps, can strip away your skin’s natural oils. Instead, use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and wash only as needed. 
• Hot water. Hot water may feel soothing, but it dries out your skin quickly. Stick to lukewarm water to keep your hands from losing moisture. 
• Harsh soaps. Those highly scented soaps might smell amazing, but they’re not doing your hands any favors. Choose mild, hydrating soaps instead. 
• Strong cleaning chemicals. The chemicals in common cleaners can be too harsh for delicate skin, causing further dryness and irritation. Shield your hands with gloves to avoid exposure. 
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizers. They kill germs, but they also dry out your hands fast. Use them sparingly and always follow up with a moisturizer. 
• Hot air dryers. Those air dryers in public restrooms? They blow out hot, dry air that pulls moisture from your skin. Pat your hands dry with a towel instead. 

Heal and Hydrate with These 

Now, let’s get to the good part—how to heal dry, cracked hands and keep them soft and hydrated. These simple steps can make a big difference: 

• Moisturize throughout the day. Keep a hand cream nearby and apply it regularly throughout the day, especially after washing your hands or being outdoors. After washing, it’s always a good idea to apply a hand cream while your skin is still slightly damp for better absorption. 
• Treat dry hands overnight. For intense hydration, slather on a thick hand cream before bed and wear cotton gloves overnight. This gives your skin a chance to absorb all the goodness while you sleep. 
• Wear gloves in cold weather. Cold air is one of the biggest culprits of dry skin on hands. When it’s chilly, don’t forget to wear gloves to keep your hands protected. 
• Use sunscreen in the sun. Your hands are exposed to UV rays just as much as your face. Apply sunscreen to the backs of your hands to prevent dryness and aging caused by sun damage. And avoid these common mistakes when using sunscreens (to shield your face, hands, and the rest). 
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, because water helps your skin stay hydrated from the inside out. Hydration isn’t just about what you apply topically; it’s also about what you put into your body. 
• Use a humidifier. If you live in a dry climate or use indoor heating, a humidifier can also help keep the air (and your skin) more hydrated. This is especially helpful in the winter months. 

Home Hacks for Dry Hands 

For some extra TLC, try these natural remedies to soothe your very dry hands: 

1. Oatmeal bath. 🥣 Oatmeal is soothing and anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce irritation. Blend oats into a fine powder and add it to a warm bath to soak your hands. 

2. Honey wrap. 🍯 Honey is an amazing natural moisturizer and has antibacterial properties, making it great for healing cracked skin. Apply a thin layer to the driest areas for instant relief. (Note that some might be allergic to honey.)

3. Aloe vera rub. 🌵 Fresh aloe vera gel is a lifesaver for dry knuckles and dry palms. It soothes, hydrates, and helps repair damaged skin. 

The Ideal Formula for a Hand Cream 

When choosing a hand cream, the ingredients are key. Here’s what to look for in creams for dry hands treatment: 

• Aloe vera. It’s soothing and hydrating, perfect for irritated skin. 
• Hyaluronic acid. Known for its ability to hold water, it provides deep, long-lasting hydration. 
• Shea butter. High in fatty acids and vitamins, it helps lock in moisture. It also comes with anti-inflammatory benefits helping soothe the irritated skin. 
• Jojoba oil. This oil closely resembles skin’s natural oils, giving dry skin on your hands deep, non-greasy hydration. Sounds perfect, right? 
• Ceramides. They help restore the damaged skin barrier and retain moisture. Our guide on the magic power of ceramides will tell you more. 
• Glycerin. It draws water into the skin, keeping your hands moisturized throughout the day. 
• And other beneficial ingredients like lanolin, almond oil, etc. 

And who are the worst enemies of dry hands? Steer clear of creams that contain artificial fragrances, parabens, or alcohol, as they can irritate and further dry out your hands. If you’re not sure about the ingredients, you can always use OnSkin to scan your hand cream for its formula to rest easy that it’s potent and safe. 

The Finishing Balm 

Taking care of your dry hands doesn’t have to be complicated. A little extra care—like moisturizing regularly, avoiding harsh products, and protecting your hands from damaging conditions—can make all the difference. So, next time you find yourself wondering “Why are my hands so dry?”, you’ll know exactly how to tackle it.