It’s a common experience: you’ve washed your hands and find that they’re stinging and sore afterwards! What’s going on and what can you do about it?
The culprits could be one of a number of things - or all of them acting together!
- The soap is too alkaline: high ph-levels mean that soap can strip the natural oils from your skin along with the germs. That leads to an impaired skin barrier, and dry, sore, damaged skin!
- The soap is perfumed: synthetic fragrances are irritants and can leave the skin inflamed and sore.
- The water is hot: hot water is more likely to combine with soap and strip the skin’s protective oils.
- Water itself can be dehydrating, leaving the skin dry and sore. The more contact you have with it, the more drying an effect.
What can I do about it?
Here are some things you can do to mitigate the effects of frequent hand washing:
- Use a gentler wash: try our very mild, unperfumed 2-in-1 Natural Shampoo & Body Wash rather than bar soap
- Pat dry (but not too dry) and apply moisturiser straightaway
- Use cooler (not cold) water - but wash for just as long!
- Use balms not creams, and apply generously throughout the day
Recommended products
Balmonds Natural Shampoo & Body Wash with calendula & chamomile
Skin Salvation balm with hemp seed and beeswax
Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream with shea butter and sea buckthorn oil
Important Note
If you require medical advice we recommend you always contact your healthcare professional.
If you or someone you are caring for seems very unwell, is getting worse or you think there's something seriously wrong, call for emergency services straight away. For general medical advice, please contact your healthcare professional, this article does not contain or replace medical advice.
Do not delay getting help if you're worried. Trust your instincts.