Causes Of Dry Hands

Dry Hands Causes

Your hands are generally quite resistant to the elements, but excessive exposure to harsh winds or irritants can take a toll. Discover what could be causing your dry hands before you look at finding the best remedy.

WHAT ARE DRY HANDS?

Dry hands are a common condition usually experienced in Winter, where the hands cannot maintain moisture, and result in dry, rough hands. Dry hands feel as though they are lacking natural oils, and can sometimes appear and feel cracked when stretched. In extreme conditions, this may result in pain or bleeding.

WHAT CAUSES DRY SKIN ON HANDS?

Your hands are generally quite resistant to the elements, but excessive exposure to harsh winds or irritants can take a toll. Discover what could be causing your dry hands before you look at finding the best remedy. Read the six most common dry hands causes below.

1. DRY AIR

Whether it’s hot or cold, dry air can leave the skin on your hands parched. When winter brings cold, dry winds, the humidity level plunges. Indoor heating can also strip even more moisture from the air.

Dry Air causing dry skin
Excessive Hand Washing

3. EXCESSIVE HAND WASHING

Every time you wash your hands you strip your skin of its natural oils. Excessive hand washing can quickly leave you with dry hands. Consider washing your hands with lukewarm water and a cream-based, soap-free hand wash to reduce the drying effects.

 

4. MEDICATIONS

Many acne medications contain chemical exfoliants like, retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. These chemicals can severely dry out your skin – including your hands.
Speak to your dermatologist if you are worried about dry skin on hands. They might be able to prescribe something more gentle.

5. AN UNDERLYING CONDITION

A number of medical conditions can be the cause of dry hands, including:

  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Psoriasis
  • Diabetes
  • Underactive thyroid gland

Consult a qualified physician if you suspect a medical condition may be causing dry skin on your hands.

Nivea hand cream on Dry Skin
Dry Hands

6. YOUR GENES

Researchers claim that dry skin can be inherited.
Experts at the University of Dundee, in Scotland, found that gene mutations which control the production of proteins used to form and hydrate the skin’s barrier, can cause several drying skin conditions.
People with these mutations suffer drier skin and are more likely to develop skin conditions like, eczema.


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