What causes dry skin?
Our skin is a protective barrier. It protects our body from external influences such as cold, heat, bacteria and pollutants. To fulfill this task, the skin relies on a supply of moisture and fats (lipids). If this natural protective function is damaged, the skin loses moisture and dries out.
The most common causes of dry skin on the hands:
1. Cold and dry air:
During the winter months, humidity levels drop both indoors and outdoors, causing the skin to dehydrate. Cold wind can reduce the blood flow to the skin, and dry air from the heating system can increase the loss of moisture, making the skin look dry and chapped.
2. Frequent hand washing and alcohol-based disinfectants:
Frequent hand washing, especially with warm water and soap, as well as the use of alcohol-based or harsh disinfectants, removes the skin’s natural fats and oils. This leads to dehydration and damage to the protective barrier, making the skin more likely to crack and become irritated.
3. Unsuitable skincare products:
Products with aggressive ingredients such as strong soaps or fragrances can further irritate the skin and disrupt the natural hydration balance, leading to dryness and irritation.
4. Mechanical stress:
Activities such as gardening, housework and professional working exposes the skin to mechanical stimulation. If the skin is not properly protected and treated, small injuries, cracks or dehydration can occur.
Why can chapped hands be dangerous?
When skin becomes too dry, it loses its elasticity and becomes fragile, which can lead to cracks and flaking. These break through the protective barrier of the skin and can be not only painful but also dangerous. In this condition, the skin can no longer properly provide its usual protection.
The main risks of chapped skin:
1. Loss of the protective barrier
Our skin is our first line of defense against external agents such as bacteria, viruses and pollutants. When this barrier is weakened by dryness or cracks, germs and dirt can more easily enter our bodies. This is especially critical in environments such as hospitals or during flu season, when germs are more prevalent.
2. Increased risk of infection
Open skin areas provide an ideal entry point for germs. Bacteria and viruses can easily penetrate these damaged skin areas into the deeper layers of the skin, causing infections. The result can be inflammation, redness and, in some cases, unpleasant systemic infections. People with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable because their bodies are less able to respond to such infections.
3. Skin diseases
Dry skin and open skin areas can significantly increase the symptoms of chronic skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis. Dehydration and a weakened skin barrier can worsen symptoms and lead to additional skin problems. In these cases, it is important to protect and take care of your skin to prevent disease progression.
How can you prevent dry and chapped skin?
To avoid dry and chapped skin, regular and conscious care is essential.
Here are some tips:
• Moisturizing creams: Use a moisturizing hand cream regularly to keep the skin moisturized. It is best to massage it in immediately after washing your hands.
• Mild soaps and care products: Choose mild, pH-neutral soaps and care products without alcohol and perfume. They won’t irritate the skin.
• Gentle cleansing: Avoid hot water, as it dries out the skin. Lukewarm water and mild soaps are gentler.
• Wear gloves: In winter and when working with chemicals or water, gloves provide effective protection against cold, wet and harmful substances.
• Avoid pure alcohol-based disinfectants without additional care ingredients: Do not use alcohol-based sanitizers as they remove the skin’s natural oils and fats.
Our recommendation:
Hydroliq DESINFECTA Plus: Gentle but powerful germ elimination for healthy hands
Hydroliq DESINFECTA Plus eliminates 99.99% of all viruses and bacteria from hands – ideal for daily use. The alcohol-free formula, based on stable hypochlorous acid (HOCl), is gentle and helps prevent skin dryness that can lead to cracking. Dermatologically tested and classified as “VERY GOOD”, this disinfectant solution is suitable for children as well as for private and commercial use. Safe, effective protection for hands – without leaving any residue or damage!