We put a lot of effort into the skin care routines dedicated to our faces, necks, and chests, but we often forget about our hands, which are actually the first body parts to show the signs of time. Luckily, tending to them—and keeping them soft, supple, and free of dark spots for longer—is simple with a few preventative tips and tricks.
Hands First
Like the skin under our eyes, the dermis on our hands is thin and fragile. However, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman notes that (unlike our eyes) we tend to pay less attention to hand care and divert all of our efforts to our face. Due to this, our hands age "faster." "They are often just as exposed to the sun and environmental aggressors as our faces, but we don't protect them as diligently with SPF, makeup, and other blockers," Dr. Engelman explains. What's more, we use (and move) our hands even more than our faces. Think about it: We touch, grip, and wash our hands constantly. It's this constant motion that drives the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, and exacerbates other signs of aging, like dryness, dullness, and uneven texture.
Moisture Matters
A committed hand-care routine is key to keeping this area smooth and line-free long term. The first step? Your hands should be adequately hydrated at all times—which is easier said than done. According to cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, hands lack sebaceous follicles, which means they do not naturally produce oil. To remedy this issue, Dr. Engelman recommends layering products for optimal hydration. "First apply oil, then a moisturizer or cream," she says. "Oils will penetrate deep into the skin, delivering active ingredients that can reduce the effects of aging. Moisturizer creates a barrier for the skin, locking in the moisture and any products that were used before it." Looking for a lotion to try at home? I like Satin Hands $12, which boasts nourishing shea butter.
SPF, Always
Sun protection is equally, if not more, important. While you might not think that your hands are in direct contact with the sun, if you drive, bike, regularly go on walks, or have an office with bright windows, they do. That's why Dr. Green says to remember to use and reapply SPF to this area regularly. Doing so will help prevent the formation of sunspots, while also protecting the hands against other signs of premature aging, as well as skin cancer. Dr. Green also recommends being mindful of just how much sun your hands get over time. Even when layered with moisturizer and SPF, prolonged exposure adds up, she says; with that in mind, she suggests wearing gloves while gardening or certain chores (like washing dishes) that may expose your hands to drying chemicals.
Reverse Damage
If your hands have started to show any tell-tale signs of aging or sun damage, consider using your facial masks on your hands. I've seen great results from women using the glycolic acid facial peel on their face and rubbing on the tops of their hands at the same time. I've also seen results from the Clinical Solutions Retinol 0.5 on the back of the hands, pictured below.
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