Cold weather can be tough on your skin, especially your hands. The harsh winter air, combined with frequent handwashing and exposure to indoor heating, can strip moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, cracking, and irritation. In some cases, conditions like eczema and psoriasis may worsen. To Keep Your Hands Soft And Smooth In The Winter, You Can Adopt The Following Practices Shield Your Hands with GlovesIf you're bundling up with a hat and scarf, don’t forget your gloves. Opt for cashmere- or wool-lined leather gloves to block wind and retain warmth. When engaging in outdoor activities like shoveling snow, choose water-resistant gloves. For household chores, especially dishwashing, wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from harsh detergents and hot water.Apply Sunscreen DailySun protection is just as important in winter as it is in summer. UV rays can still damage your skin, contributing to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin conditions. Use a hand cream with SPF to keep your hands moisturized while shielding them from the sun’s harmful effects.Keep Your Hands HydratedFrequent moisturizing is key to preventing dryness and cracking. Keep a tube of hand cream in multiple locations—your bedside table, work desk, handbag, and car—so you can apply it throughout the day. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, and ceramides.Exfoliate for Better AbsorptionExfoliating your hands removes dead skin cells, allowing moisturizers to penetrate more effectively. A simple DIY scrub using coconut oil and sugar can help keep hands smooth. Alternatively, a gentle facial exfoliant can also be used to maintain soft skin.Use Hand Sanitizer WiselyWhile hand sanitisers are convenient, overuse can dehydrate your skin. Choose a non-drying formula with added moisturizers to minimize irritation. Some products even contain skin-nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or essential oils.Wash Hands with Lukewarm Water and Moisturizing SoapHot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving your hands dry and irritated. Instead, wash with lukewarm water and a moisturizing soap to cleanse without excessive dryness.Avoid Hand DryersWhile hand dryers are convenient, the hot air can further dry out your skin. When possible, use paper towels instead to gently pat your hands dry.Care for Your CuticlesYour nails and cuticles are also vulnerable to winter dryness. Applying a cuticle oil or balm infused with nourishing ingredients like sweet almond oil and vitamin E can prevent cracking and peeling.Indulge in Overnight Hand TreatmentsFor deep hydration, apply a thick hand cream before bed. Wearing cotton gloves overnight can help lock in moisture, ensuring soft and supple hands by morning. You can also try gel-lined gloves infused with hydrating ingredients for an extra boost of nourishment.