How to Protect Your Hands from Frequent Washing?

Frequent hand washing is one of the crucial strategies in containing infection by the new coronavirus.

Regular washing for at least 20 seconds is recommended, or regular application of hand sanitizers is recommended to combat microorganisms before they colonize.

However, repeating this action can cause injuries and leave marks on the skin.

Why do these injuries occur?

The epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, has several functions. Because it's in direct contact with the external environment, it's responsible for:

• Regulate body temperature;
• Protect from UV rays;
• Control the body's water retention;
• Prevent infection by pathogens.

To fulfill its mission well, above the epidermis there is still a very thin layer called hydrolipidic film – an emulsion of water and fat that is formed by substances of sweat and sebaceous origin.

This mantle acts as a “protective film,” controlling the loss of body water while preventing harmful bacteria and fungi from entering the body.

Repeated exposure to water and the use of soap, alcohol gel, or other products ends up weakening the hydrolipidic film, leaving the epidermis unprotected, which can cause dry skin or even irritating contact eczema.

In this case, the patient may experience itching and the skin may become red, flaky or even cracked.

If you already have a tendency to have dry skin or suffer from a skin condition involving your hands, such as eczema or psoriasis, your hand lesions may become significantly worse at this point.

Tips for Minimizing the Impact of Frequent Hand Washing

In order to minimize the consequences that repeated washing can have on the skin of your hands, I suggest some tips:

1. Avoid friction when drying your hands: Dry your hands completely after washing with a towel or paper towel, but avoid rubbing. Pat your hands together gently, making sure to cover all areas (especially between the fingers).
2. Use moisturizing cream: Emollients are essential for preventing hand eczema. They help repair the skin's outer barrier, making the skin soft and supple again. They should be applied after every hand wash, repeatedly throughout the day, and whenever your skin feels dry.
3. Boost your hydration before bed: You can also apply a generous layer of emollient to your hands before bed. Putting on cotton gloves and leaving them on overnight will significantly increase the product's absorption.
4. Protect your hands with gloves: Whenever your hands come into contact with water and detergents (e.g., bathing children or washing dishes), you should wear barrier gloves (e.g., nitrile gloves). This will help maintain an intact skin barrier.