Seasonal SOS: Protecting Your Hands Through All the Weather
Ah, the changing seasons. A time for open fires, cozy nights, and… unfortunately, havoc on our precious hands. From the bone-chilling dryness of winter to the sun-sapping heat of summer, each season presents its own unique set of challenges for keeping our hands soft, smooth, and protected.
But fear not, with a little preparation and some seasonal-specific knowledge, we can weather any storm and keep our mitts looking and feeling their best year-round. So, grab your favourite hand cream and let’s dive into our ultimate guide to seasonal hand protection!
Winter Warriors: Battling the Brrr
Winter might be a wonderland for snow bunnies, but for our hands, it’s a harsh mistress. The cold, dry air zaps moisture, leaving skin cracked, flaky, and downright painful. To combat this wintery woe, we need to layer up our hand-care routine:
- Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Opt for thick, creamy formulas packed with emollients like shea butter and ceramides to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. Apply generously throughout the day, especially after washing your hands. My new favourite – Margaret Dabbs, Fabulous Hands, no surprise really that I love this as one of the ingredients is geranium which I adore. https://www.margaretdabbs.co.uk/intensive-hydrating-hand-cream-tube/
- Don’t forget the SPF! Just because the sun is hiding doesn’t mean its harmful UV rays aren’t still lurking. Choose a hand cream with SPF 30 or higher to protect against premature ageing and sun damage. Hello Sunday- The one for your hands is available in Space NK, its lightweight and absorbs quickly which is handy ( excuse the pun) https://www.spacenk.com/uk/sun-tan/suncare/body-spf/the-one-for-your-hands—hand-cream%3A-spf-30-MUK200033972.html
- Wear gloves, wear gloves, WEAR GLOVES! This is non-negotiable. Whether you’re braving the elements on your daily commute or shovelling the driveway, shield your hands from the harsh wind and biting cold with a good pair of insulated gloves.
Spring Fling: Embracing the Renewal
Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and our hands deserve a fresh start too. Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin cells and boost circulation, then follow up with a lighter moisturiser to replace the heavy winter creams.
Here are some spring-specific tips:
- Embrace the natural oils. As the weather warms, your hands will naturally produce more oil. Don’t over-wash, as this can strip away these protective oils and lead to dryness.
- Get your hands dirty (in a good way)! Gardening is a great way to get some vitamin D and give your hands a natural exfoliation treatment. Just be sure to wear gloves when handling harsh chemicals or thorny plants.
- Brighten up with antioxidants. Spring is the perfect time to incorporate antioxidant-rich ingredients like vitamin C and green tea into your hand-care routine. These goodies help fight free radicals and protect your skin from environmental damage. Have you tried Necessaire, the hand cream? This is fantastic for dry hands, really creamy ( a great one in the winter months).
Summer Sun Seekers: Staying Cool and Protected
Summer sun is glorious, but it can be brutal on our hands. Sunburn, dryness, and hyperpigmentation are all potential hazards. To keep your hands looking and feeling summer-ready:
- Sunscreen is your BFF. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your hands every single day, reapplying every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Seek shade and hydration. Avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours, and make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Cool it down with soothing ingredients. Look for hand creams with ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber to cool and refresh sun-exposed skin. ( Hello Sunday, mentioned earlier contains Aloe Vera)
Autumn Leaves: Cozy Up and Nourish
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, our hands need a bit of extra TLC. The cooler temperatures and increased indoor heating can lead to dryness and irritation. Here’s how to pamper your hands during autumn:
- Exfoliate and hydrate regularly. Continue with your gentle exfoliation routine and switch back to a richer, thicker moisturiser to combat the drying effects of fall weather. The Body Exfoliator by Necessaire is addictive.
- Give yourself a hand massage. Take some time each day to give your hands a loving massage with a nourishing oil or cream. This will boost circulation and improve overall skin health.
- Treat yourself to a DIY hand mask. Try Mixing together some mashed avocado, honey, and olive oil for a homemade hand mask that will leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
By following these seasonal tips and tricks, you can keep your hands happy and healthy all year long. Remember, consistency is key! Make hand care a part of your daily routine, and you’ll be rewarded with soft, smooth, and beautiful hands that are ready to take on anything the seasons throw your way.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to take care of your nails too!
