Hands are particularly prone to dryness and cracking in winter, but the key is not just how much hand cream you apply, but also what you put on your skin, your skin's own microbiome, and your internal condition.
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Common misconception: Lotion ≠ Repair
It has strong skin absorption, so the product applied to the hands will not "evaporate" but will enter the pores, blood, and then the liver.
Approximately 22% of personal care products are petroleum-based (such as solvents and mineral oils), which can draw away fat-soluble vitamins A , D , E , and K , making hands drier, redder, more scratched, and more prone to cracking.
Fluoride and chlorine in tap water can be irritating to the skin; it is recommended to install a shower filter for long-term use.
While frequent handwashing is necessary, it can further damage the skin barrier.
Skin microbiome :
Our hands and the surface of our entire body are home to a large number of "friendly microorganisms" (including about 14 common fungi), which live in a symbiotic relationship with us, helping to produce vitamins and resist pathogens.
Environmental changes:
Stress, stimulation, and other altering factors can cause harmless microorganisms to change their nature, leading to problems.
Changes in skin pH:
The skin's pH level is naturally slightly acidic (around 4–4.5 ); if it is raised to slightly alkaline by improper products, it will cause swelling and inflammation.
Outer appearance reflects inner qualities
- Topical application can help, but the fundamental factors are still diet and lifestyle:
- Reduce refined carbohydrates and practice intermittent fasting to slow down tissue oxidation/rusting.
- Avoid the accelerated aging effects caused by common "vegetable oils" (such as soybean oil and rapeseed oil).
Two main directions for repair!
- Avoid sources that exacerbate dryness: Discontinue the use of emulsions containing mineral oil/petroleum-based oils; always wear gloves when working with clay, pottery, or in contact with solvents or chemicals.
- Replenish the fat-soluble vitamins that have been "drawn out" and rebuild the hand's microbiome; don't kill off all the "good bacteria."
Twice a week! A super effective home care technique!
Three natural ingredients to complete repair and nourish beneficial bacteria in one go:
- One egg yolk (use only the yolk) : Rich in vitamins A (retinol) , D, E, and K , lecithin, choline, and Omega-3 , which can be absorbed by the skin, softening the stratum corneum and repairing the skin barrier.
- 1 teaspoon of raw honey (about 14g ) , preferably Manuka: it has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, and the small amount of sugar can feed friendly microorganisms (but do not overdo it, so it is recommended to do it twice a week ).
- 2 tablespoons (about 26g ) of extra virgin olive oil : replenishes fat, repairs skin, and seals in moisture (makes sure it is truly virgin ) .
practice
- Mix the three ingredients together to form a paste;
- Apply evenly to both hands and leave for 20 minutes to allow it to slowly penetrate.
- Rinse gently with clean water (do not rub vigorously);
* It is recommended to do this before bed, and avoid frequent handwashing overnight to aid in the repair process;
* Twice a week is sufficient; avoid turning your hand microbes into "sugar addicts".
summary:
To prevent dry, wrinkled, red, and chafed hands, in addition to reducing irritants (chemicals, mineral oils, chlorine/fluoride in tap water), it's essential to replenish fat-soluble vitamins and rebuild the hand's microbiome. A simple three-step method using egg yolk, raw honey, and extra virgin olive oil can nourish both the skin and beneficial bacteria without over-sterilizing, yielding noticeable results.
Check out the most popular hand creams!
👉🏻: https://iherb.prf.hn/l/y8kD9ve/
High quality doesn't have to be expensive! Over a hundred iHerb products are up to 25% off compared to other stores, and with lightning-fast 8-hour delivery!
YouTube source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbPMMLTG-Pw
YouTube Column: Dr. Berger in Chinese Health knowledge
