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Excessive moisture and humidity during the rainy season come with their own set of challenges, especially for our hands. Dehydration caused by excessive sweating, along with dampness and fluctuating humidity, can leave hands dry, irritated and uncomfortable. The monsoon can also increase the risk of fungal infections between the fingers, joint stiffness and nail problems.
Keep Your Hands Hydrated
Hydrate your hands regularly with a hand cream or moisturizer, especially if you work around water in the kitchen. Apply a thicker layer of moisturizer before bedtime and wear soft cotton gloves. This allows the skin to absorb and lock in moisture overnight, leaving your hands soft and nourished by morning.
During the day, use a lightweight, non-sticky moisturizer immediately after washing your hands. This helps trap moisture in the skin before it evaporates.
For a simple homemade scrub, mix coconut oil, sea salt and a few drops of vitamin E oil. Massage it gently onto your hands in circular movements for about five minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Keep Your Hands Clean
Hand hygiene becomes even more important during the monsoon to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with mild, preferably fragrance-free soap and running water before eating, after using the restroom and whenever you return home from outside.
A germ-protection handwash can provide additional protection. Choose products that cleanse dirt and grime without being harsh on the skin, preferably those with a high percentage of naturally derived ingredients and free from ingredients such as parabens, silicones, triclosan and triclocarban.
Regular handwashing removes microbes and can help reduce the risk of illnesses that spread through contaminated hands and water.
Exfoliate Gently
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, impurities and grime that can accumulate on humid skin. Use a gentle hand scrub once or twice a week to keep the skin smooth and soft. Avoid over-exfoliation, which can damage the skin barrier.
For a homemade scrub, mix three tablespoons of coffee with two tablespoons of coconut oil and one tablespoon of sugar. Gently massage onto the hands and rinse with warm water after two to three minutes.
Do not forget your nails. Use a nail brush with firm bristles underneath the nails and softer bristles on their surface to remove accumulated dirt.
Give Extra Care to Cuticles and Nails
Nails can take a beating during the monsoon because prolonged exposure to water and humidity can make them rough, brittle or discolored and may increase the risk of infection.
Keep your nails clean, dry and neatly trimmed, and moisturize the cuticles regularly. Well-groomed nails are an important part of your overall appearance.
Painting your nails can also be a form of self-care. Experimenting with cheerful colors and attractive designs can brighten your mood while giving your hands a polished, well-groomed look.
Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed in this article/column are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of South Asian Herald.
