Why Ageing Hands Need Extra TLC in Winter – And How to Protect Them

Key Takeaways

• Winter intensifies dryness and aging for already vulnerable hands.
• Up to 64% of older adults experience dry skin.
• Aging skin has reduced natural protection, increasing winter susceptibility and the need to find the best hand cream for ageing hands. 
• Dermal Therapy Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, with ingredients like Plantago Lanceolata, offers intense moisturisation and improved skin elasticity.

Our hands are often the first place to reveal signs of ageing, like fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. As if that wasn’t enough, chilly winter conditions can exacerbate these concerns. This article explores why ageing hands are so vulnerable in the winter, what you can do to protect them, and how to find the best hand cream for ageing hands.

 How Winter Conditions Hurt Your Hands

As we get older, the skin on our hands naturally begins to change. It becomes thinner, loses collagen and elastin (those vital components for plumpness and elasticity), and produces less oil. Unfortunately, winter conditions worsen these issues:

• Low Humidity & Dry Air: These conditions draw moisture away from the skin, leading to increased dryness and cracking.

• Hand Washing & Sanitising: While essential for hygiene, frequent washing strips the skin of its already limited natural oils, causing further dryness.

• Cold & Wind: Winter weather can cause more moisture loss and irritation, damaging the skin’s protective barrier.

• Temperature Changes: Going from cold outdoors to warm indoors can cause the skin to expand and contract, leading to stress and potential damage.

This combination of conditions is tough on mature skin, making hands feel extra dry and irritated. Plus, it can speed up the ageing process – which is not what anyone wants.

 Why Ageing Hands Are More Vulnerable in Winter

Winter’s harshness hits ageing hands particularly hard because of the physiological changes that come with time. Our hands naturally experience:

• Decreased sebum production: Research suggests that sebum production (natural oil that keeps skin moisturised) can decrease by as much as 60% in aged skin.

• Reduced skin barrier function: Over time, our skin’s protective barrier weakens, making hands more susceptible to moisture loss and irritation. Studies indicates that dry skin is a common issue for older adults, affecting up to 64% of those in nursing homes.

• Slower cell turnover: Skin cell renewal slows significantly with age, increasing from 14-21 days in young adults to 60-90 days in older adults. This means ageing skin is much slower to repair itself from winter damage.

• Loss of subcutaneous fat: Ageing leads to a loss of fat beneath the skin, reducing insulation. Research suggests that the loss of subcutaneous fat stores can make older hands more vulnerable to cold and injury.

These age-related changes combine with winter’s drying effects to make mature hands significantly more vulnerable to damage and discomfort.

 5 Visible Signs That Winter is Ageing Your Hands

As the weather grows colder and winter draws closer, these are the common signs of skin damage to watch out for:

1. Increased cracking, flaking and very dry skin
2. Exacerbation of fine lines and wrinkles
3. Redness and irritation
4. More sensitive skin 
5. Potential for eczema flare-ups

 How to Protect Ageing Hands in Winter

The good news is that with a careful and consistent approach, you can protect your ageing hands from winter’s effects. Here’s how:

1. Consistent and Frequent Moisturising: Apply anti-ageing hand cream regularly, especially after washing your hands.

2. Gentle Cleansing: Use soap free products and avoid harsh detergents that can strip your skin.

3. Protect from the Elements: Wear gloves to shield your hands from cold, wind, and moisture.

4. Hydrate from Within: Drink plenty of water to maintain overall skin hydration.

5. Gentle Exfoliation: Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin cells but avoid overdoing it.

6. Nighttime Treatment: Apply a thick balm and wear cotton gloves overnight for intensive moisturisation.

7. Anti-Ageing Hand Cream: Look for key ingredients like humectants, emollients, occlusives, and anti-ageing ingredients.

Ultimately, finding the best hand cream for ageing hands, with ingredients specifically chosen for mature skin, can really make a difference in how your hands feel and look this winter. 

Choose Dermal Therapy Anti-Ageing Hand Balm for Targeted Winter Protection

When it comes to giving your ageing hands some much-needed TLC this winter, Dermal Therapy Anti-Ageing Hand Balm is a great option. This Australian-made and owned balm has a clinically proven formula designed to provide much-needed relief. 

Here’s how it can help your hands:

• Intense moisturisation for dry, cracked skin: If winter leaves your hands feeling like sandpaper, this balm delivers a moisture boost to hydrate and soothe.   

• Visibly improves skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines: It contains a unique, plant-based ingredient called Plantago Lanceolata, which helps to enhance your skin’s smoothness and firmness. Think of it as a helping hand to get back that youthful feel!   

• Protection against moisture loss: The balm helps to create a barrier, locking in precious moisture and shielding your hands from the drying effects of winter.

• Soothes and calms irritated skin: Because it’s suitable for sensitive skin, you can trust it to be gentle, even when your hands are feeling their most delicate.

Dermal Therapy Anti-Ageing Hand Balm can contribute to visible improvements in skin appearance, helping you feel more confident in your skin, no matter the season.

Take a Holistic Approach & Give Your Hands the Love They Deserve

At Dermal Therapy, we believe that caring for ageing hands this winter goes beyond just applying our balm. Think of it as a chance to incorporate a little self-care into your day – a soothing hand massage can be a small but significant moment of relaxation. 

Remember, healthy skin is often a reflection of overall well-being. So, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress all play a role. 

And if you’re dealing with persistent issues like rashes, thick scales, or discoloration that just won’t go away with regular care, it’s always a good idea to consult a dermatologist. They can provide tailored advice to help you find the best hand cream for ageing hands.

Nurture Your Hands and Feel Your Best with Dermal Therapy 

We’ve learnt how and why mature hands are particularly vulnerable to harsh winter conditions. That’s why taking a proactive approach to their care is so important. 

By consistently using protective measures and incorporating targeted products like Dermal Therapy Anti-Ageing Hand Balm into your routine, you can help keep your hands healthy, comfortable, and feeling their best all winter long. Find your nearest store now.

You might also find it helpful to check out other resources, such as articles on How Hand Balm Can Soothe and Repair Damaged Skin, plus Tips and Daily Habits to Prevent Very Dry Skin. 

References: 

DOI.org: Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin.  

DOI.org: Characteristics of the Aging Skin. 

DOI.org: Skin anti-aging strategies.