The approaching winter months will bring a drop in temperature and humidity \u2013 even on the coast \u2013 which can take a toll on the skin \u2013 particularly the hands. The result is often chapped, dry, and cracked hands during the colder months if skincare routines aren\u2019t started early.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur hands are one of the most exposed parts of our body, making them particularly vulnerable to harsh weather conditions,\u201d explains Lynsey Hammond, MD for Kroko, a leading South African manufacturer of skincare products. \u201cThe cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even painful cracks. Proper hand care is essential not only for comfort but also for maintaining the skin\u2019s protective barrier during winter.\u201d<\/p>\n
Best Practices for Winter Hand Care<\/strong><\/p>\n To prevent an unnecessarily uncomfortable winter, Hammond shares her expert advice on the do\u2019s and don\u2019ts of winter hand care to maintain soft, healthy hands all season long.<\/p>\n 1. DON\u2019T Wash Hands with Hot Water<\/strong><\/p>\n Wash hands with lukewarm water instead of hot water as this can strip the skin of its natural oils. It\u2019s often tempting to use hot water to warm up in winter, but it can leave skin feeling dry and irritated.<\/p>\n 2. DO Moisturise Regularly<\/strong><\/p>\n After washing hands, be sure to add emollient hand cream, ideally one with UV protection, to prevent the skin from becoming dehydrated. It\u2019s a good idea to keep moisturiser near the basin for use directly after washing.<\/p>\n 3. DO Use Gentle Soaps<\/strong><\/p>\n Many hand soaps contain harsh chemicals that can dry out the skin even more. Rather choose, all-natural, moisturising hand soaps that will replenish the skin while washing.<\/p>\n 4. DO Wear Gloves<\/strong><\/p>\n People living in particularly cold climates or with sensitive skin should consider wearing gloves outdoors to protect their hands, as well as using rubber gloves when washing dishes or cleaning. This protects the hands from cold air and harsh detergents.<\/p>\n 5. DO Exfoliate Gently<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s important to limit exfoliation of the hands to once a week, using a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells without damaging the skin barrier. Excessive exfoliation can damage the skin\u2019s barrier, making it more prone to dryness and cracking.<\/p>\n 6. DO Stay Hydrated<\/strong><\/p>\n Just as in summer, it\u2019s important to drink plenty of water during the winter months to maintain skin hydration from within.<\/p>\n 7. DO Protect Cracked Skin<\/strong><\/p>\n Despite the best intentions, fingers can still dry out and crack during the winter months. It\u2019s best to use a fast-acting healing solution like Kroko\u2019s FingerFix. This is a colourless, hygienic treatment to protect, cover, and help heal cracked skin on fingers without the need for bulky plasters.<\/p>\n Beyond healing cracked fingers during the winter months, FingerFix is a great solution for people who suffer from dry hands generally, and those in the habit of picking at the skin on fingers and hands. FingerFix is also the perfect healing solution for those who use their hands predominantly for work, such as chefs, butchers, doctors, carpenters, anglers, artists, and even office workers.<\/p>\n \u201cWinter can be harsh on our hands, but with the right care before and throughout winter, you can keep them soft and healthy,\u201d says Hammond. \u201cAt Kroko, we understand the importance of effective skincare, which is why Kroko FingerFix is designed to provide targeted solutions for even the most stubborn skin issues.\u201d<\/p>\n To find out more about Kroko FingerFix or other Kroko products, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za. Keep updated on all Kroko news by following Krokofootcare on Facebook or kroko_footcare on Instagram.<\/p>\n