As winter's chill sets in, our hands often bear the brunt of harsh weather conditions, leading to dryness, cracking, and discomfort. Fear not! Embrace the season with a DIY approach to pampering your hands. Here are some simple and effective do-it-yourself hand masks to keep your hands soft, supple, and ready to tackle winter's challenges.
Honey Almond Elixir
Honey is great for treating cuts, burns, and various skin conditions like dandruff and diaper rash. It can make your skin soft, retain moisture, help keep your skin young, slow down wrinkles, and protect against infections. This has been corroborated by numerous studies, including a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
Almond oil on the other hand possesses excellent moisturising properties. A study titled ‘The uses and properties of almond oil’ by Zeeshan Ahmad, a researcher from the Salisbury General Hospital, shared that almond oil has been used in Ancient Chinese, Ayurvedic and Greco-Persian medicine to treat dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon almond oil
Instructions
- Combine honey and almond oil.
- Massage the mixture onto your hands, focusing on dry areas.
- Allow it to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing off.
Coconut Avocado Mask
Coconut not only moisturises the skin but also helps prevent infections and skin damage due to cold harsh hair. According to a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties and also strengthens the skin barrier.
Additionally, avocado also acts as a skin-hydrating agent. As per a study published in MDPI’s journal ‘Nutrients,’ similar to coconut oil, avocado also acts as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent. Here’s how you can make this hand mask.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon mashed avocado
Instructions
- Mix coconut oil and mashed avocado.
- Apply the mixture to your hands and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
Also Read: These DIY Essential Oil Blends Are A Must In Your Winter Skincare Routine
Shea Butter Citrus Bliss
A study published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology found that shea butter has moisturising properties and is also a great topical applicant for sensitive skin. Another study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine shared that citrus essential oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties which can help against cold burn.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon shea butter
- A few drops of your favourite citrus essential oil (eg orange or lemon)
Instructions
- Warm shea butter until it becomes a soft consistency.
- Add citrus essential oil and mix well.
- Apply the mixture to your hands and leave it on overnight for an intense treatment.
Oatmeal Soothe & Softening Mask
Oatmeal was found to enhance skin barrier protection, moisturise and soothe the skin, act as an anti-inflammatory agent, and even act as a remedy against severe skin conditions like eczema, in a study led by Hamadan University of Medical Sciences.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons finely ground oats
- 1 tablespoon plain yoghurt
Instructions
- Mix ground oats and yoghurt.
- Apply the paste to your hands and gently massage.
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Also Read: Here's How Drinking Chia Seed Water Can Do Wonders For Your Skin
Say goodbye to winter-worn hands and hello to soft, rejuvenated skin with these nourishing DIY hand masks. Whether you opt for the hydrating power of coconut and avocado or the soothing qualities of oatmeal and yoghurt, these simple recipes offer a spa-like experience from the comfort of your home. What’s great is that these masks are equally great for your face as well and can help you achieve clear, moisturised facial skin as well. Embrace self-care this winter, and treat your hands to the treatment, love, and care they deserve!