Easy Solutions for Dry Winter Skin

We paint our nails with the latest colors and dress our fingers up with large cocktail rings, but we often skimp on the TLC our hands truly need and deserve. That’s a mistake: Dry, rough hands can make you appear older than you actually are.

The cold, dry air of winter can be brutal on your hands. Plus, frequent washing -- while good for preventing colds and the flu -- can strip your hands of the moisture they need. Director of Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center Heidi Waldorf recommends frequently moisturizing with products that “contain humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid -- which pull moisture from the environment -- as well as highly-moisturizing shea butter.” Read on for more tips on keeping hands soft and supple all winter.

Moisturize immediately after washing.
Hand cream permeates better when applied to damp skin than dry.

Exfoliate to remove dead skin.
It helps reveal a fresher, more glowing complexion on your face and body, and it works the same for your hands. Look for a scrub that is specially formulated for your hands, or use one that’s meant for your face. Body scrubs, however, can be too harsh for the gentle skin of your hands.

Use serums.
At night, apply an anti-aging serum to your hands, and then layer with a thick, luxurious hand cream for extra benefits.

Don’t forget your cuticles.
Every time you use hand cream, apply a bit directly to cuticles and massage it in. This will prevent them from getting scraggly. Bonus: It also strengthens nails.

Wear gloves.
They’ll protect your hands from the harsh elements both when you head outdoors and when you’re washing dishes.