The only downfall to frequently washing hands is that the skin dries out quickly. Most of the time, the temperature of the water has a lot to do with maintaining optimal moisture, but ingredients in commercial hand soaps also dry out the skin. Even if you use a nourishing hand soap, it can seem like all the lotion in the world cannot remedy the problem.
If you suffer from dry hands, trust us when we tell you that you are not alone. During the colder, dryer months, skin is more prone to drying out, which is why you have to invite moisture back in. It’s always possible to use natural lotions or moisturizers that hydrate the skin, but why not kill two birds with one stone by using a moisturizing hand soap. You’ll clean your hands and moisturize at the same time! See how the moisturizing ingredients help your skin below.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is often praised for being an all natural toner and all-around superstar for your skin care routine. The polyphenols in witch hazel help to fight the signs of premature aging. By fighting free radical damage that comes from harmful UV rays, witch hazel works to fight the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Additionally, the natural tannins help to reduce inflammation, calming the appearance of red or irritated skin. These tannins also fight any greasiness on the hands that builds up from environmental pollutants. This recipe only calls for a small amount because too much witch hazel can strip the skin of moisture.
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is technically a group of oil-soluble compounds that are commonly added to serums, moisturizers, eye creams, and more. When it comes to topical application, dermatologists agree that vitamin E oil can benefit numerous skin disorders. It works to repair the skin by assisting with cellular restoration. Vitamin E oil also works to moisturize the skin and improve the exterior of the epidermis. It actually establishes a protective barrier that helps to seal in moisture and reduce potential inflammation.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil typically remains on the skin’s surface, creating a protective layer of moisture on the skin. Dermatologists believe that the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties in sweet almond oil also contribute to wound or acne healing. More research is necessary to prove this, though. People with dry skin can greatly benefit from using sweet almond oil because it is a natural emollient. This means that it works to smooth the skin by filling in dry gaps with moisture. In doing so, the skin’s barrier improves and it is able to retain more moisture for a lot longer.
DIY Moisturizing Hand Soap
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup purified water
- 3/4 cup liquid Castile soap
- 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil
- 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
- 1 tablespoon witch hazel
- 15 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions:
- Pour the water, Castile soap, vitamin E oil, sweet almond oil, witch hazel, and lemon essential oil to a soap bottle with a dispenser lid. Make sure to pour them into the bottle in that order.
- Shake well before each use. When you use the soap, make sure to dispense a small amount onto your hands, scrub together for 20 seconds, and then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Pat hands dry and feel the difference. If you notice a little oily residue, this is completely fine and you should not rub it off. Those oils are working hard to moisturize your hands!
