Why Your Hands Are So Dry—and How to Fix Them Fast

We use our hands constantly—grasping, typing, gripping, writing, pulling, and pushing—leaving little time for them to rest. That’s why when we experience dry skin on our hands, it’s hard to ignore.

“Symptoms of dry hands include roughness, flaking, cracking, and a tight, uncomfortable feeling,” says Kunal Malik, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology. “Clinically, we call this ‘xerosis,’ which occurs when the skin barrier is compromised. While cold weather can worsen the condition, it’s actually present year-round, especially given our frequent hand washing and sanitizing, which has increased since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Dr. Malik advises that a visit to a dermatologist is warranted if symptoms include severe itching, painful cracks, bleeding, or infection. But if you're unsure whether your hands are simply dry or actually dehydrated, Dr. Nazanin Saedi, MD, another board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University, has a helpful tip:

“Have you seen the TikTok video that shows how to know if your skin is dehydrated? Pinch the skin on your hand. Does it snap back? If it does, it’s dry skin. If it doesn’t, it’s likely your skin is dehydrated. Dry skin on the hands lacks oil, while dehydrated skin lacks water. If you suffer from either, your skin needs attention.”

Ahead, top derms share the best ways to get your dry hands feeling and looking good again.

Meet Our Expert

·     Kunal Malik, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

·     Nazanin Saedi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and a clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University.

·     Corey L. Hartman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology.

Causes of Dry Skin on the Hands

Environmental Issues

Cold weather, low humidity, wind, and UV light can strip moisture from the skin and weaken its barrier. “Cold air holds less moisture, which can create or exacerbate dry skin,” says Dr. Saedi. “To make matters worse, indoor heating reduces humidity levels, pulling moisture from the skin.” Derms suggest applying a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that contains ingredients like water-retaining hyaluronic acid or hydrating ceramides in the morning to protect skin from environmental stressors and reapply as needed throughout the day. “Use the time when you’re sleeping for a restorative treatment by applying a thicker cream moisturizer that contains the same, or similar ingredients to what you used in the morning. You can also add a petrolatum-based product on top to seal in moisture and sleep in cotton gloves,” says Dr. Hartman. Sun damage will also dry out the skin on your hands, so be sure to apply a hand moisturizer with SPF when outdoors.

Chronic skin dryness can impact nail quality and growth, leading to hangnails and inflammation of the nail fold. Apply a cuticle oil nightly to help with hydration. “If you notice your cuticles are peeling, it’s a sign you need to increase moisture in your skin, which can be done through applying moisturizing products, increasing water intake, and eating water-rich foods,” shares Dr. Hartman.

Lifestyle Factors

Frequent hand washing and long showers can significantly disrupt the skin’s barrier, resulting in hand dryness. “Run lukewarm water when hands are under the faucet, pat dry—don't rub—then immediately apply a hand moisturizer containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, shea butter, or petrolatum,” says Dr. Malik. Limit your time in the shower and keep the water temperature set to warm. The best time to apply any moisturizer is right out of the shower, when skin is still damp to help protect its barrier and hydrate the skin. “At this time, pores are slightly open due to the heat, allowing the skin to absorb moisturizing ingredients more effectively,” says Dr. Hartman. Think a cream-based moisturizer for day and an ointment at night. As for hand sanitizers, choose one that contains moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera, vitamin E, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.

If your skin is dehydrated, drink more water to improve moisture levels in the skin. “General guidelines are 8 to 10 glasses—64 to 80 ounces—of water daily, with adjustments based on climate and activity level,” says Dr. Malik. Adds Dr. Hartman, “If that feels like a lot, try bumping up your water intake slowly, adding an additional glass every week.”

Harsh Products

Many soaps and cleaning products contain surfactants that strip away the skin’s natural protective oils. “It’s a good idea to wear gloves while cleaning and scrubbing,” says Dr. Saedi. “And look for gentler, household products formulated without fragrances or dyes such as Seventh Generation, or ones that are plant-based and free of chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and artificial colors like Mrs. Meyers.”

Hand soaps, especially antibacterial hand soaps and those made with fragrances, can be particularly drying for sensitive skin. Instead, shop for hand washes labeled “gentle” and “moisturizing,” that are free of harsh chemicals like sulfates and phosphates and contain plant-based ingredients such as coconut or olive oil. “Similarly, hand sanitizers typically include alcohol, which can be drying and result in irritation. Anyone with super dry skin may want to skip the sanitizer and lather up with a gentle soap instead,” says Dr. Saedi.

Skin Issues

Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, along with acne and anti-aging fighting ingredients like retinoids, can cause dryness and inflammation on the hands. “As can aging, when the sebaceous glands slow down the production of oil produced in the skin,” adds Dr. Saedi, who suggests leaning into products that are both hydrating and anti-aging. “Something with a rich blend of ingredients such as ceramides to repair skin, hyaluronic acid to attract moisture, glycerin to lock in moisture, and peptides to boost collagen. I also suggest getting into the habit of massaging whatever anti-aging product you have leftover on your fingers from your face application to the tops of your hands.”

If you suffer from eczema or psoriasis, it’s important to moisturize with fragrance-free emollients, take warm showers, and see a dermatologist to discuss topical prescription medications, such as corticosteroids.

How to Hydrate Your Hands

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Apply a hand cream with moisture-rich emollients such as ceramides and shea butter in the morning, then one with moisture-sealing occlusive ingredients like petrolatum and jojoba oil at night. “If I notice my hands are feeling especially tight or dry, I’ll apply a thick layer of Vaseline to my skin before bed,” says Dr. Saedi. “I wake up with my hands feeling much softer and less irritated in the morning.” If you need something stronger, your dermatologist may prescribe EpiCeram, a cream that delivers a 3-1-1 ratio of ceramides, free fatty acids, and cholesterol, which mimics the natural levels of fats found in healthy skin to repair and protect the skin's outer layer.

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