How to prevent hands from cracking and staying hydrated:
•Moisturize one to two times a day with a cream such as Cerave Cream or Aveeno Eczema Cream.
•Choosing a fragrance-free formula is also a good idea.
•It is generally best to opt for cleansers that only have gentle ingredients.
•Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel prevents dryness without clogging pores and absorbs into the skin quickly without leaving any residue and is perfect for year-round use.
•Avoid antibacterial soap, which can be drying. Unless you’re instructed to use antibacterial soap for medical reasons, then just use the regular stuff instead.
•I don’t think you can use too many products as they will all be absorbed into your skin.
•Other products can be added to target specific concerns, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for acne, or hyaluronic acid for irritation or dryness.
How to prevent nails becoming brittle and weaker and advice for strengthening your nails:
•Wear gloves when hand washing dishes or cleaning.
•Do not use antibacterial soap.
•Moisturize cuticles with Aquaphor, Vaseline or CND Solar Oil.
•DermaNail Conditioner – use twice a day; Helps dry, brittle nails.
•Biotin – a vitamin which accelerates nail growth (My favorite is vitafusion Gummies for Hair, Skin, and Nails because it contains a good amount of Biotin and is also a multivitamin).
•Keep nails short; file nails gently; avoid nail trauma (such as using them to open packages or remove lids from cans).
•For soft nails – use Nailtiques 2 Plus Lacquer or Sally Hansen Advanced Hard as Nails Strengthener.
•Use nail polish remover that does not contain acetone.
*Tips provided by Elizabeth Mullans, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist practicing in Houston, Texas.
