I have a theory that water is getting ‘harder’. Are the reservoirs getting lower and what’s left at the bottom more full of calcium? I might be completely wrong, but just rinsing my hands in plain water lately seems to leave them like parchment paper. Imagination apart, there’s no doubt that at this time of year with changeable weather and increased gardening / outdoor activity your skin can be challenged. Those prone to eczema, like me, dermatitis sufferers and those living in hard water areas will find it a particularly ‘drying’ time of year.
To combat the dryness, it’s even more important to drink plenty of water (ideally filtered or spring) or herbal teas. A daily supplement like Evening Primrose or Starflower Oil can be beneficial too especially if prone to eczema.
If you do have to wash your hands frequently, moisturise little and often too. Organic Ultra Rich or Calendula Balm are great to both quickly replenish thirsty skin and to protect from further damage. Choose a gentle face, hand and bodywash free from harsh detergents and synthetic fragrances. All Essential Care cleansers, hand and body washes, and extra virgin olive oil soaps are gentle and non-drying. On the face follow cleansing immediately with moisturiser topped with a spot or two of Superfruit Concentrate if needed and on the body, Organic Hand and Body Lotion which is non-greasy but rehydrating. For exceptionally dry skin, pamper with Relaxing Body Oil, Ultra Rich or Calendula Balm applied sparingly, until it normalises. Bump Butter is not just for mums-to-be by the way - it makes a great lightly fragrant body butter!
I’m also a big fan of Repair Lotion as a rich hand cream as well as for the odd flare up / red patches of eczema. The aloe vera and shea butter-rich formula swiftly makes my hands feel normal again.
