2. Many of us talk with our hands, and your
hands have a lot to say about the state
of your health. Your hands do so much
that they really need some TLC, and it
makes sense to take good care of them.
Here are some tips to keep your hands
looking young and beautiful.
3. 1. Use sunscreen
You probably know that dermatologists and other experts
recommend wearing sunscreen on your face every day. But
you may not have thought about sunscreen on your hands.
Hands can develop "liver spots" or age spots, brownish
areas that are actually sun damage. Apply sunscreen to
your hands as you would moisturizing lotion, and it will
become second nature to keep your hands protected from
the sun.
4. 2. Moisturize
At least three times a day, moisturize your hands. Because of
all the things your hands get into - especially soap and
water - they tend to dry out quickly, particularly in winter.
5. 3. Take care of your nails
Rather than putting acrylic nails over unhealthy natural ones,
take a look at some of the simple things you can do to
improve the health and look of your fingernails. First, file
them into a neat oval after trimming. Second, when you
moisturize your hands be sure to work some in around
each nail.
6. 4. Wear gloves when gardening and
washing dishes
Soap and water can strip your hands of healthful natural oils.
Wearing gloves keeps hands out of cleaning chemicals and
soap. When gardening, gloves protect your hands from the
sun and from injuries such as briar scratches and contact
dermatitis from handling weeds.
7. 5. Palm massage
Simply rub one palm over the back of the opposite hand in a
circular motion. The massage motion increases circulation,
which helps warm up your hands.
8. 6. Finger massage
Soothing for arthritis, a finger massage with a little warm
coconut oil is very healthful. Gently pull each finger in a
"milking" motion and finish by moving each finger joint
gently to the side. This relaxes and loosens the joints and
gives your hands better flexibility and circulation.
9. 7. Exfoliate
Did you ever think to exfoliate your hands? Gently rub damp
hands with salt or sugar, then rinse. The grainy texture of
the salt helps scrape away old skin cells, and, once again, it
improves circulation.
10. 8. Manicure
A professional manicure is a real treat, but be sure that the
emphasis is on nail health and not covering up weak nails
with acrylic ones. Go for a manicure that nourishes your
existing nails and pampers your hands.
11. 9. Feed your nails with good nutrition
Deficiencies in the B-complex vitamins can cause ridged nail
beds, and a lack of calcium can result in brittle, dry nails
that chip and flake easily. Be sure to eat foods high in these
vitamins or take supplements to improve the look of your
nails.
12. 10. Adjust your computer
The position of your computer monitor, keyboard, and mouse
can have a profound effect on your hands. Repetitive
motions such as typing and mouse-clicking can result in
tired, sore hands or even inflammation such as carpaltunnel syndrome. Be sure your mouse is comfortable and
easily reached, and that your keyboard is positioned at a
comfortable level.
