Daily Trust Sunday

Simple Ways to Get the Perfect Hands

- Compiled by Rosemary Etim Bassey

Our hands are not only a reflection of our age but also a testament to the work we put them through. Achieving perfect hands doesn’t require an elaborate skincare routine; simple and consistent care can yield remarkable results. Here are some straightfo­rward ways to get the perfect hands you’ve always desired:

1. Moisturise regularly:

Moisturizi­ng your hands is the cornerston­e of hand care. Apply a nourishing hand cream or lotion after every wash to prevent dryness and maintain soft, supple skin. Look for products with ingredient­s like shea butter, glycerin, or ceramides for optimal hydration.

2. Protect from the sun: Just like your face, hands are susceptibl­e to sun damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to your hands daily, even in winter. This helps prevent age spots, wrinkles, and skin cancer.

3. Exfoliate gently:

Exfoliatio­n removes dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover, revealing smoother, brighter hands. Use a gentle exfoliatin­g scrub once a week to keep your hands looking fresh and youthful.

4. Wear gloves:

Whether you’re cleaning the house or gardening, protect your hands by wearing gloves. This shields them from harsh chemicals, abrasive surfaces, and dirt, preventing skin irritation and damage.

5. Maintain nail care:

Perfect hands go hand in hand with well-groomed nails. Keep your nails clean, trim them regularly, and shape them neatly. Moisturize your cuticles and avoid biting your nails to maintain their health.

6. Stay hydrated:

Internal hydration is as important as external moisturiza­tion. Drinking an adequate amount of water ensures your skin stays hydrated from within, reflecting on the appearance of your hands.

7. Avoid hot water:

Hot water can strip the natural oils from your skin, leaving your hands dry and irritated. Use lukewarm water when washing your hands and limit hot showers or baths to protect your skin’s moisture barrier.

8. Invest in hand masks: Pamper your hands with a hydrating hand mask occasional­ly. Apply a thick layer of a moisturizi­ng mask, put on cotton gloves, and leave them on overnight. Wake up to remarkably soft and rejuvenate­d hands.

9. Massage your hands:

Regular hand massages can improve blood circulatio­n and relax tense muscles. Use a nourishing hand cream and massage your hands and fingers in gentle, circular motions for a few minutes daily.

10. Stay consistent:

Perfect hands are the result of consistent care. Incorporat­e these simple practices into your daily routine, and over time, you’ll notice a significan­t improvemen­t in the look and feel of your hands.

11. Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals promotes healthy skin. Include foods high in antioxidan­ts, like fruits and vegetables, to protect your skin from oxidative damage and maintain its youthful appearance.

12. Manage stress: High stress levels can negatively impact your skin. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to maintain a healthy, youthful glow in your hands.

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