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All Australians have been advised to regularly and thoroughly wash their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds in order to stop the spread of coronavirus. However, frequent hand washing with soap can cause all sorts of skin irritations, from dry skin to dermatitis, itching, cracking and peeling.
Frequent handwashing can strip skin of essential moisture and oils, and the disruption of the sub-optimal skin barrier can make skin more susceptible to pathological organisms and bacteria which can cause irritation and inflammation. So how do you protect your hands and keep them clean?
By purchasing a hand cream, lotion or oil to moisturise your hands after washing, for your exclusive, personal use. Just be sure not to share the product with anyone else, and keep the applicator or nozzle clean at all times. Only apply after hand washing, and always wash your hands before and after eating, before and after moving through public spaces or work places, and before and after arriving or leaving home, or handing dirty items such as shared digital devices or phones.
What should you look for in a hand cream?
Hands generally become dry and sore when the skin experiences a lack of moisture. Many natural oils possess specific compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties, making them attractive treatments for dermal irritation. Moisturisers repair the skin barrier by providing hydration and prevent transepidermal moisture loss. Oil and oil-based moisturisers will also hydrate the outermost layer of skin.
Ingredients to look out for that will keep your hands soft and nourished
- Almond oil nourishes and soothes
- Macadamia oil hydrates
- Shea butter moisturises
- Keratin for strong skin and nails
- Aloe Vera to relieve dryness
- Olive Oil for hydration
- Vitamin E is an antioxidant and calms irritation
- Coconut oil to hydrate and soothe
- Lavender oil to soothe
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How to wash your hands correctly
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