After a long day of working, typing, cleaning, and everything in between, your hands are probably the most overworked part of your body. Yet, they often go unnoticed in our daily self-care routines. Dryness, rough patches, and even sore cuticles can slowly become the norm. But your hands deserve some extra love, especially at night when they have the chance to recover and restore. Taking just a few minutes before bed to care for your hands can leave them feeling soft, smooth, and rejuvenated, helping you wake up with hands that are ready to take on a new day. Here are seven ways to pamper your hands every night before bed.
Tips To Take Care of Your Hands Every Night Before Going to Bed
1. Cleanse Gently
It is most important to wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day. Your hands come into contact with dirt, pollutants, and bacteria over the day. Using a gentle hand cleanser at night can help remove impurities without stripping your skin of natural oils. Opt for a mild, sulphate-free soap that hydrates as it cleans. Also, avoid harsh antibacterial soaps as they can dry out your skin, leaving your hands rough. A gentle cleanse before bed prepares your hands for the next steps in your care routine.
2. Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells
Just like the skin on your face, your hands can accumulate dead skin cells, leading to dull, rough patches. Exfoliating your hands once or twice a week before bed can help remove these dead cells, revealing smoother and softer skin. Exfoliation can brighten your skin and boost the effectiveness of topical skincare products by improving their absorption, as stated in the American Academy of Dermatology.
You can use a mild hand scrub or make your own by mixing sugar with olive oil. Gently massage the scrub onto your hands in circular motions for a couple of minutes, paying special attention to areas prone to dryness like knuckles and cuticles. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Regular exfoliation promotes better absorption of moisturisers and treatments that follow.
Also Read: Nail Care For Diabetics: Follow These Tips To Maintain Healthy Feet and Hands
3. Moisturise Deeply
Moisturising is essential for an effective hand care routine. Hands lose moisture continuously throughout the day, especially if they are washed frequently or sanitised frequently. Nighttime is the perfect opportunity to restore that moisture.
After cleansing or exfoliating, apply a rich hand cream or lotion that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier, leaving your hands soft and supple. For added hydration, you can layer a thin coat of petroleum jelly over the moisturiser to seal in the moisture overnight.
4. Apply a Cuticle Oil
Healthy nails begin with healthy cuticles. Your cuticles can become dry and cracked, particularly during colder months or after exposure to water and cleaning products. You can keep them nourished by applying cuticle oil before bedtime.
Look for oils rich in vitamins, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or vitamin E oil, which not only hydrate the cuticles but also promote stronger nail growth. Massage the oil into your cuticles and nails in circular motions, allowing the nutrients to soak in. This simple step helps prevent hangnails and keeps your nails looking healthy and well-maintained.
Also Read: Pamper Your Hands And Feet: Steps To Do Manicure And Pedicure At Home
5. Wear Cotton Gloves for Intense Hydration
You can consider wearing cotton gloves after applying your hand cream and cuticle oil for an extra boost of hydration. The gloves create a barrier that helps lock in moisture, ensuring the products you’ve applied penetrate deeply into the skin. This method is especially beneficial for people with extremely dry or chapped hands. Cotton gloves are breathable and comfortable, so you can wear them overnight without discomfort. By morning, your hands will feel softer and more rejuvenated.
6. Massage Your Hands
A quick hand massage before bed can work wonders in relieving tension and improving blood circulation. Not only does it feel incredibly relaxing, but it also promotes better product absorption. After applying your hand cream or oil, take a few minutes to gently massage your hands, focusing on your palms, fingers, and joints. Circular motions and gentle pressure can help relax the muscles, reduce stiffness, and stimulate circulation. This simple step adds a luxurious touch to your nighttime routine and prepares your hands for a restful night of repair.
7. Stay Hydrated and Humidify Your Bedroom
While applying topical treatments is crucial, it’s also important to hydrate from within. Drinking water before bed helps maintain your skin’s moisture levels, ensuring your hands and body stay hydrated overnight.
Additionally, using a humidifier in your bedroom can create a moisture-rich environment, which is particularly beneficial during colder months when indoor heating can dry out the skin. A well-humidified room helps prevent moisture loss from your hands, allowing your nighttime treatments to work more effectively.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]