Washing your hands is critical to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). However, frequent handwashing can cause dry skin that can itch, flake, crack, and even bleed without proper precautions. This can cause open wounds in your skin that can allow in bacteria and other germs and increase your risk for infection. As we cannot afford to stop frequent hand washing during this COVID-19 pandemic, following are few tips to reduce your risk of dry, cracked skin due to frequent handwashing.
1. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds in lukewarm water. Use soap, and wash every part of your hands, including between your fingers and around your nails.
2. Dry your hands with a clean towel but leave some water on them.
You can also let your hands air dry. While your hands are slightly damp, apply your hand cream or ointment.
3. Apply hand cream or ointment to your skin, making sure you work some of the moisturizer into your fingertips and nails.
It is recommend to use a hand cream or ointment that:
- Contains mineral oil or petrolatum
- Comes in a tube rather than a pump-bottle
- Says it’s “fragrance-free” and “dye-free”
This moisturizer tends to feel less irritating to dry, chapped skin
4. When you use hand sanitizer, apply your hand cream or ointment immediately after the hand sanitizer dries.
Because the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to kill germs, hand sanitizer can be very drying.
5. Do not stop hand washing even if they feels dry, as washing your hands can remove harmful bacteria and viruses. Consult your dermatologist if your symptoms are severe or persistent.
