Why Do I Have Dry Hands? Causes and How to Fix Them

Your hands work tirelessly every day. From washing dishes to typing emails, they’re constantly exposed to water, soaps, and environmental stressors. Unsurprisingly, many people experience dry hands, especially in colder months or after frequent handwashing. In fact, studies suggest that up to 25% of adults struggle with very dry hands regularly. Understanding why this happens and how to fix it can make a huge difference.

Understanding Dry Hands

Dry hands occur when your skin loses its natural oils and moisture. Several factors contribute:

Environmental Factors

Cold weather, low humidity, and indoor heating can strip moisture from your skin. Over time, this can result in dry peeling skin on hands, dry skin on palm of hand, or hands dry and peeling. Even summer isn’t always safe - air conditioning, swimming, and sun exposure can cause extremely dry skin on hands, answering the common question: “why do I have dry hands in summer?”

Frequent Hand Washing and Sanitizers

While hand hygiene is essential, washing hands frequently or using alcohol-based sanitizers can damage the skin barrier. This often leads to very dry hands or dry cracked hands.

That’s why moisturising immediately after washing is key. Applying the Yardley Nourishing Hand Cream and massaging it in thoroughly helps restore softness while leaving no greasy residue

Medical Conditions and Skin Sensitivities

Eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin allergy on hands can leave skin irritated. Rarely, a fungal infection dry hands may occur, requiring specific treatment. Pregnant women may notice dry hands while pregnant, due to hormonal changes affecting skin hydration.

Symptoms of Dry Hands

Recognising early signs of dryness can prevent discomfort from worsening. Common symptoms include:

• Hands red and dry
• Cracks, peeling, or rough texture
• Dry back of hands and very dry palms of hands
• Persistent always dry hands

If left untreated, these can progress to painful fissures or infection.

How to Fix Dry Hands

Addressing dry hands requires consistent care, smart habits, and the right products. Here’s how to start:

Moisturise Frequently

Applying a dry hand cream multiple times a day is essential. After washing hands, massage a nourishing cream into the palms, backs of hands, and between the fingers.

On particularly rough days, layer a thicker moisturiser like MoliCare Skin Hand Cream before bed. This routine transforms dry, peeling skin on hands into smooth, hydrated skin overnight.

Protective Measures

Before heading out into cold weather, apply a thin layer of cream. Wearing gloves over this helps protect skin from wind and harsh conditions. This method is particularly effective for preventing dry back of hands and maintaining very dry palms of hands. Combining moisturisation with gloves ensures hands stay soft throughout the day.

Smart Handwashing

• Use lukewarm water instead of hot water.
• Opt for gentle, fragrance-free soaps.
• Pat your hands dry gently instead of rubbing.

Immediately following with a hand cream for dry hands, like Yardley helps lock in moisture and reduces the chance of dry cracked hands.

Lifestyle Tips

• Hydrate from the inside out, drink plenty of water.
• Incorporate omega-3-rich foods into your diet to help maintain skin elasticity.
• Take short breaks from tasks that irritate the skin, such as cleaning or dishwashing.

Choosing the Best Hand Cream

When selecting a hand cream, look for:

Feature	Why It Matters
Rich in oils & butters	Repairs very dry hands and prevents cracking
Fast absorption	Leaves skin soft without greasiness
Mild fragrance	Reduces irritation for dry skin allergy on hands
Suitable for sensitive skin	Essential for extremely dry skin and peeling on hands

Using creams like Yardley Nourishing Hand Cream during the day and MoliCare Skin Hand Cream at night ensures continuous hydration and protection.

FAQs About Dry Hands

Why do I have dry hands?

Frequent washing, environmental exposure, skin conditions, or allergies can all cause dry hands. Identifying the cause is key to effective treatment.

How do I treat dry cracked hands or very dry hands?

Moisturise often with a nourishing cream, wear gloves outdoors, and avoid harsh soaps. Overnight treatment with a rich cream like MoliCare Skin Hand Cream is particularly effective.

What is the best hand cream for very dry hands?

Products such as MoliCare Skin Hand Cream provide intensive hydration, ideal for extremely dry skin on hands.

Why do I have dry hands in summer?

Air conditioning, sun exposure, and frequent swimming can strip moisture from your hands, causing dry skin on palm of hand or dry back of hands even during warm months.

Can pregnancy cause dry hands?

Yes. Dry hands while pregnant are common due to hormonal changes. Gentle, fragrance-free creams are recommended.

How do I care for hands red and dry or always dry hands?

Consistent moisturizing, protective gloves, and avoiding irritants help restore skin. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Can fungal infections cause dry hands?

Yes. Fungal infection dry hands may mimic normal dryness but requires antifungal treatment.