MUST DOs of pandemic hand skin care: DERM recommended| Dr Dray

TL;DR

Dermatologist provides tips for coping with dry, irritated hand rashes caused by frequent hand-washing.

Transcript

well hey guys in today's video I'm gonna give you my tips as a dermatologist for coping with the dry irritated hand rashes that we're all suffering with right now while we're watching our hands too often hand washing is really hard on your skin the reason for this is that both soap and water strip away the waxy lipid outer layer of your skin and it... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤗 Hand-washing with soap and water is important for reducing transmission of infectious diseases, but it can lead to dryness and irritation.
• 🥶 Using lukewarm water and fragrance-free soap can help minimize skin damage.
• 🤗 Hand sanitizers with alcohol are a suitable alternative to hand-washing.
• 💦 Applying an ointment, like petroleum jelly or a healing ointment, after washing helps restore the skin barrier and reduces water loss.
• 🧴 Using too much soap or choosing lotions instead of ointments can further irritate the skin.
• 😋 Removing rings during hand-washing is recommended to prevent moisture trapping and potential allergic reactions from nickel.
• 😩 Wearing white cotton gloves with ointment overnight can help restore the skin barrier.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is hand-washing with soap and water hard on the skin?

Soap and water strip away the outer layer of the skin, leading to dryness and irritation.

Q: Is it important to use antibacterial soap for hand-washing?

Antibacterial soap is not necessary, any hand soap will do. However, fragrance-free soap is recommended to minimize irritation.

Q: Are hand sanitizers an effective alternative to hand-washing?

Hand sanitizers are a step below hand-washing, but they can be used as an option. Alcohol-based sanitizers are recommended.

Q: What should be applied to the hands after washing?

It is recommended to apply an ointment, such as petroleum jelly or a healing ointment, to the slightly damp hands to lock in hydration.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Soap and water strip away the protective outer layer of the skin, leading to dryness and irritation.

• Lukewarm water is recommended for hand-washing to avoid further damaging the skin barrier.

• Using fragrance-free soap and opting for hand sanitizers with alcohol are advised.