Hand Care After Forty: 9 Tips To Reveal Your Hands' Hidden Youth
The Aussie sun. It's a source of life, vitamin D, and epic barbecues. But for our hands, it's a harsh mistress.
As we step into our forties, the signs of that sun exposure, combined with the drying effects of our unique climate, can start to show on our hands – dryness, wrinkles, and age spots.
The Sunburnt Truth: Why Hand Care Matters Down Under
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and our hands are no exception.
The thin skin on the backs of our hands is particularly susceptible to UV damage. This damage breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to premature ageing signs. Additionally, our hot, dry climate can further exacerbate these issues.
The Importance of Healthy Hands
Healthy hands are essential for preventing painful conditions like eczema and arthritis. Taking care of your hands improves your grip strength when gardening or playing backyard cricket, making everyday tasks easier.
Additionally, healthy hands are less susceptible to cuts and scrapes, which is especially troublesome as we age.
Building a Hand Care Routine for Over 40
Here's a step-by-step routine specifically tailored to our Aussie needs:
1. Sun Protection is Paramount
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Look for a water-resistant formula that withstands our active lifestyles and frequent dips in the pool or ocean.
A'PIEU Pure Block Waterproof Sun Cream offers UV block defence without irritation. It comes with a Sand-Out system to keep sand from sticking to your skin.
2. Cleanse Wisely, But Not Harshly
Avoid harsh soaps that strip your hands of natural oils. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers with added moisturisers.
3. Deep Hydration is Key
This is crucial for combating our dry climate. Apply a rich hand cream throughout the day, especially after washing your hands or being outdoors. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter, which help hydrate and lock in moisture.
TONYMOLY Peach Hand Cream is a delightful K-beauty hand cream that combines the refreshing scent of peaches with nourishing ingredients like peach extract and hyaluronic acid.
4. Don't Forget the Gloves
Wear gloves when doing housework, gardening, or handling harsh chemicals. This protects your hands from irritants and keeps them looking youthful. Opt for breathable cotton gloves for everyday tasks and rubber gloves for tougher jobs.
5. Nighttime Nourishment
Before bed, apply a thicker hand cream enriched with jojoba or avocado oil. These oils are readily absorbed by the skin and provide deep nourishment overnight. You can even wear cotton gloves to enhance the absorption.
JART+ Ceramidin Hand Cream is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, perfect for nighttime use.
6. Stay Hydrated from the Inside Out
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. Aim for at least two litres of water daily, especially during the hot summer.
7. Beat the Heat with Cooling Treatments
The sun can leave hands feeling hot and irritated. Keep a bottle of aloe vera gel in the fridge, such as HOLIKA HOLIKA Aloe 99% Soothing Gel, and apply it to your hands for a soothing, cooling sensation after sun exposure.
8. TLC
Chlorine and saltwater dry your hands. After a swim, rinse them with fresh water and apply a rich hand cream to replenish lost moisture.
Use once a week INNISFREE Special Care Hand Mask to achieve healthier, younger hands in less than 15 minutes. It's the perfect K-beauty hand cream for those using their hands all day.
9. Embrace the Aussie BBQ Culture
Keep a bowl of cool water with sliced lemons nearby. Soak your hands a few minutes after handling hot food or cleaning up to remove grease and grime.
Unveiling Your Hands' Hidden Youth
Remember, taking care of your hands is an investment in your overall well-being. So, embrace the power of Korean ingredients, prioritise sun protection, and celebrate life – all while keeping your hands looking and feeling their best.
With a little TLC that caters to our unique environment, you can unveil the hidden youth in your hands, allowing them to continue expressing your adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors for years to come.
