Dry hands
Dry hands have several causes. If the dry skin appears only locally, e.g. only on the hands, the cause is likely to be increased sensitivity of the skin to the surrounding environment. If the skin is drier overall (not just dry hands) it may be a vitamin A deficiency. Also, hormonal changes after the transition can trigger the feeling of dry skin. Most often, however, dry hands are caused by a breakdown of the skin barrier.
Watch out for disinfectants
The skin is a very sensitive organ. Among other things, it has its natural acidity around Ph5. This is an environment in which harmful bacteria and other microorganisms do not thrive. The more the skin's Ph approaches the neutral environment of Ph7, the more pathogens thrive. These penetrate the top layer of the skin, multiply and cause problems in the form of dry skin, redness, excessive peeling, cracks, pimples, boils, cornification, etc. Paradoxically, the more the skin is washed and cleansed, the faster the skin becomes damaged. That is why the hands of health professionals suffer the most. The constant washing, subsequent disinfection and wearing of disposable gloves leads to dermatitis and eczema.
Dry hands, what to do about it?
Common soaps and gels are highly alkaline, their Ph is around 12. Only use gels and soaps with a Ph of around 5 for washing. Do not wash with hot but lukewarm water, non-chlorinated if possible. After washing, do not rub your hands, but dry them by tapping or blow-drying. Use Dermaguard barrier cream with moisturising effect. This moisturises and protects the skin for up to 6 hours, even after several washes. If you do not want to use a barrier cream, you must moisturise your hands (with a non-greasy cream) after each wash and wear protective gloves if your hands come into contact with irritants.
