Every November it starts the same way: knuckles that feel tight, fingertips that catch on sweaters, and skin around the nails that splits for no obvious reason. Winter is hard on hands. The good news is that keeping them comfortable doesn't take a ten-step routine or a long ingredient list.
Why hands get so dry in winter
Three things work against you at once:
- Cold, dry outdoor air holds very little moisture, so it pulls water out of your skin.
- Indoor heat dries the air even more.
- Hot water and soap strip away the natural oils that help skin hold on to moisture. More hand washing in cold and flu season means more stripping.
The backs of your hands and your knuckles have thinner skin and fewer oil glands than your palms, which is why they're usually the first to feel rough.
Why an oil and beeswax balm works
Most lotions are mostly water. They feel nice going on, but the water evaporates and can leave skin feeling drier than before. A balm has no water at all.
- Extra virgin olive oil softens and conditions skin. It's been used on skin around the Mediterranean for thousands of years.
- Beeswax forms a light, breathable layer on top that helps hold that softness in and protects against wind and cold.
Because there's no water, there's nothing for bacteria to grow in, so a simple balm doesn't need preservatives. That's why our Body Balm has exactly two ingredients: single-origin Palestinian extra virgin olive oil and beeswax.
A simple winter hand routine
- Wash with lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water feels good in the cold but strips more oil.
- Pat dry, then apply while skin is slightly damp. A balm seals in the little bit of water left on your skin.
- Use less than you think. Warm a small amount between your fingertips for a few seconds until it softens, then work it into the backs of your hands, knuckles and around your nails.
- Do it again at night. Bedtime is when a balm does its best work, because your hands aren't touching anything. For very rough hands, apply a slightly thicker layer and wear thin cotton gloves while you sleep.
- Keep a tin where you need it. By the sink, on your desk, in the car. If it's in reach, you'll use it.
Small habits that help
- Wear gloves outside, even for short trips.
- Wear rubber gloves for dishes and cleaning.
- Run a humidifier in the bedroom if your heat runs dry.
- Don't pick at splits or peeling skin around the nails. Keep them soft with balm instead.
Not just for hands
The same balm works anywhere skin gets dry and rough in winter: elbows, heels, knuckles, and beards. For beards, work a little through to the skin underneath, then shape.
A note on sensitive skin
Olive oil and beeswax are gentle for most people, but everyone's skin is different. Patch test on a small area before first use, and stop if you notice irritation. If your skin is bleeding, very painful or not improving, see a doctor or dermatologist.
Show us your hands
Try a week of the routine above, then post a photo of your hands with #MelzaytaHands and tag @shopmelzayta. Share yours and get $5 off your next order of $50 or more.
Shop the Body Balm: two ingredients, unscented, 2 oz tin, made in Northeast Ohio.