Handcare 101: How to Repair and Pamper Overwashed Hands

Mar 3, 2023

Regular handwashing is essential — but it comes at a cost. Soap and water strip away the skin’s natural oils, weakening the outer lipid layer that locks in moisture. This leads to transepidermal water loss (TEWL), resulting in tightness, flaking, and that raw, dry feeling.

2 Ways to Protect Your Hands

1. Cleanse with Care

Washing your hands for 20 seconds with a gentle soap is effective for removing dirt and microbes. When soap and water aren't available, opt for an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that also contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E to help offset dryness.

Tip: A rich lather isn’t more effective — overdoing it can actually weaken your skin barrier.

2. Strengthen Your Skin Barrier

Protecting your hands starts with maintaining a strong barrier. Hands are frequently exposed to UV rays, weather, and environmental aggressors, all of which contribute to skin damage and early signs of aging.

Ingredients like Madecassoside are essential for calming irritation and restoring the skin’s barrier function. And yes — applying sunscreen to your hands, even in winter, is just as important as using it on your face.

Moisturize Frequently: Lotion or Balm?

After each wash or exposure to water, it’s essential to re-moisturize to stop the cycle of dryness.

  • Balms are ideal for dry, stressed hands. With high oil content and little to no water, they help lock in moisture and create a protective layer.

  • Lotions, with their lighter texture and higher water content, are great for normal or combination skin types.

Introducing: Make Peace Hand Balm

Part of our Cell Shock Age Intelligence range, the Make Peace Hand Balm is designed for hands that need comfort, recovery, and long-lasting protection.

Why it’s your skin’s best ally:

  • Defends against external aggressors to reduce dryness and discomfort

  • Rebuilds the skin barrier with Madecassoside and D-Panthenol

  • Protects with mild antimicrobial extracts from echinacea

For Ultimate Hand Relief

The Make Peace Hand Balm doesn’t just moisturize — it soothes. Formulated with glycerin and organic aloe vera, it provides instant comfort and can even be used as an overnight mask for deep recovery. Just apply a generous layer before bed and wake up to softer, happier hands.