How to Treat Chapped Hands

Chapping on the hands is uncomfortable and often very painful. Sometimes it seems that no quantity of lotion can ever be enough to heal chapped hands. When regular lotions aren't doing the trick, try these tips to get hands soft and smooth once more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Soak hands in a solution of bath oil and warm water for about 20 minutes once a day. For a quicker approach, soak hands for a few minutes before applying a layer of baby oil to the damp skin.
2. Try an inexpensive remedy using everyday products you probably keep on hand. Vegetable shortening and petroleum jelly are a cheap way to achieve the same effect as pricier products. The trick is to be sparing when using them so that your hands aren't too greasy.
3. Layer lotion on thinly and let it absorb into the skin before applying another thin layer. Don't go crazy laying it on thick all at once.
4. Exfoliate hands naturally by rubbing them in the powder created by blending up dry rolled oats.
5. Coat your hands in a cream or sugar scrub then sleep with a pair of cotton gloves on. The gloves will provide a protective barrier for your skin while the cream or scrub does its job.
6. Use the same moisturizer on your hands that you use on your face. In the morning and at night, as well as any time you wash your hands, apply a moisturizer instead of lotion to restore moisture to your skin.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not wash your hands any more than is necessary, and when you do wash them, avoid hot water and use a mild soap. Try to expose only the palms of your hands to the water, leaving the susceptible backs of your hands as dry as possible.
• Always wear gloves when washing dishes and doing other water-related activities. Since rubber gloves retain moisture against the skin and make chapping worse, layer a pair of cotton gloves under regular rubber gloves.