Manos y pies

The sebaceous (oil glands), located at the base of each hair follicle, produce a waxy substance called sebum that lubricates and moisturizes the skin’s surface and also helps the skin maintain its moisture barrier.

Look closely at your hard-working hands. The skin on your palms is thick and lacks hair. No hair follicles means no sebaceous (oil glands). The skin on the back of your hand is very thin with little fatty tissue and very few hairs.

The thick skin on the soles of your overworked feet also lacks sebaceous glands. Feet are naturally dryer than other areas making them more prone to dryness and cracking.  What should you do?

• Exfoliate both hands and feet when necessary and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
• Moisturize hands after washing or using hand sanitizer.
• Keep a portable moisturizer like a lotion bar handy for some TLC away from home.
• Stay away from water-based lotions that evaporate too quickly to repair dry skin.
• For very dry hands or feet, moisturize at bedtime and wear cotton gloves or socks to allow the cream time to sink in.

Your hands and feet are constantly exposed to the elements and take a lot of abuse. They deserve the same attention you give the rest of your body. If you take care of your hands and feet, they will take care of you.