Don't Forget: Your Hands Need Regular Skin Care

Your Hands DON’T FORGET: Need Regular Skin Care

When it comes to your skin, you probably already have a daily skin care routine for your face, neck and décolletage.

But are you neglecting your hands? They need more care and attention than the occasional application of hand cream. The skin on the back of your hands is just as thin as some areas on your face. Meaning your hands are just as fragile and susceptible to signs of aging. A daily hand care routine is vital not only to prevent drying and age spots, but to prevent loss of elasticity. To build a beneficial hand care routine, start with keeping your hands clean. Wash them throughout the day using a mild, moisturizing soap with water and gently pat dry. The next step is moisturizing to keep your hands soft and smooth. Gently rub moisturizer into your hands immediately after each washing, if possible, to prevent soap from stripping the natural oils. Carry a nongreasy hand cream with you, like celeb-favorite Josie Maran’s Whipped Argan Oil Intensive Hand Cream or The Hand Treatment by La Mer. Even better, deep condition your hands occasionally and remember to protect them with gloves while cleaning to avoid harmful chemicals. You may remember to use sunscreen on your face, but don’t forget your hands. This is a vital part of any hand care routine because sun exposure can lead to premature signs of ageing and age spots. Apply to the top of your hands each morning and reapply, if possible, followed by hand cream.

And you probably exfoliate in the shower, but you may not include the back of your hands.

Exfoliation is as essential for your hands as the rest of the body, promoting blood circulation and removing dead skin.

Even though experts suggest keeping your nails short for added hygiene, it all comes down to personal preference. Longer nails do tend to hide more germs, but if you like your nails a bit long, just remember to scrub under your nails each day.

Finally, manicures don’t just look good, they are beneficial to your hands.

Whether you hit the salon or treat yourself at home, give your nails the attention they deserve with regular cuticle trimming, filing, moisturizing and a soothing massage. When your hands look good, you’ve got the perfect motivation to maintain a regular hand care routine.

Do You Need

RETINOL OR RETINOIDS? Ask your Dermatologist

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that many swear is a fountain of youth for its ability to ease skin hyperpigmentation, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, accelerate collagen production and minimize acne and other breakouts. And then there are retinoids, which are coveted for the same reasons. It’s easy to grasp the difference once you know that retinol is a form of retinoid.

RETINOIDS Any product that contains retinoic acid, a form of vitamin A, is a retinoid, but the term is usually reserved for prescription-strength products with higher concentrations. They’re typically found in creams and ointments, though some are available as pills.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved a retinoid for prescription use, tretinoin (Retin-A), in 1971, and it was followed by others including adapalene, tazarotene, acitretin and bexarotene. They are used to treat many conditions including acne, psoriasis, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and some forms of skin cancer.

Side effects can include excessive drying, redness, flaking and irritation, especially for those who have dry or sensitive skin. They can also leave your face more vulnerable to sun exposure, so night use and extra daytime protection are recommended. RETINOL The anti-aging power of prescription retinoids garnered huge interest from professionals and patients, ultimately leading to approval of a less-potent version, retinol.

Retinoids with concentrations of 0.1% or less of retinoic acid are known as retinol and can be purchased over the counter in an uncountable number of products. Retinol also has many skin care and anti-aging benefits but it can take considerably longer to see results compared to prescription retinoids.

There also are fewer side effects that cause milder if any irritation or sensitivity. Many doctors recommend using retinol products first to see how well they are tolerated before trying the stronger versions.

WHICH ONE? Those dealing with severe acne or psoriasis or want to make quick work of wrinkles and sunspots should speak to a dermatologist for prescription retinoid recommendations. Those who are pregnant or have conditions like eczema or rosacea should check with their doctor before using any retinoid.