Cracked, Bleeding Hands: Winter skincare routine to protect your paws

If you work in the elements, like I often do while covering breaking news and weather at NTV News, you know how quickly cold weather can wreck havoc on your skin.

Learn from my mistakes, skip the cute products, and get serious

Here’s a look at my everyday hand care routine:

Start with a good rubdown

Everyday I spend a minute exfoliating. Hands are pretty tough so look for something with lots of grit but also lots of moisturizing ingredients.

I use my own, handmade scrub, either the Simple Sugar or Honey formulas. The Simple Sugar is a little grittier but leaves hands with a heavier moisture barrier when done. The Honey is better if you have delicate or thin skin on your hands.

These scrubs can be purchased at Edith Joi in Kearney this spring, but if you’d like to purchase some prior, just send me a message!

Follow with some serious moisture

After scrubbing, pat your hands dry and follow up with moisture. Typically a normal hand lotion or cream will work, but if the situation is dire, start with one of these products (below) on troubled areas, then put lotion on your entire hand.

If you need the tough stuff: Working Hands

The packaging leaves much to be desired, and the smell is… interesting. But this tub has gotten me though some horrible winter weather conditions. Working Hands is a thick, white paste that gives you grip. You’ll notice it when you’re holding your pen, turning a door handle or grabbing your steering wheel. Unlike traditional lotions and balms that leave your hands slippery or greasy, this paste has an almost rubber-like texture. But don’t worry, you hair, fuzz or dog fur won’t stick to it. If you grab this green tub, you won’t regret it.

Desiring Designer? Glossier’s Balm DotCom

I was given this magic little tube from my friend Syd. She didn’t like it, but I’m addicted. It’s like an amped up petroleum jelly. The transparent product comes in a small tube but a little goes a long way. Use this on your knuckles, cuticles and between your fingers. Don’t go too crazy though or your hands will be greasy all day. Bonus, this product doubles as a lip balm (but be warned, it tastes like crap).

Money Saving Salve: Aquaphor Healing Ointment

If you love Glossier but don’t want to dish out the dough, try this option. It’s similar, but in my opinion, it’s a bit more watered down. You’ll want to focus it on your troubled areas. Again don’t go too crazy with it, you’ll end up a greasy mess if you do. Bonus, it’s preservative and fragrance free plus Aquaphor is available at most drug stores and convenience stores.

Before dashing out the door, accessorize

When heading outside, don’t forget to grab those gloves. IMO the cuter they are, the more likely you are to use them. So, don’t be afraid to splurge on a a little sparkle. However, if you’re planning out being out for a few hours skip the style and look for an insulated, waterproof pair. Even if it isn’t snowing or raining, the waterproofing will really block the wind. Also, look for longer cuffs that will tuck into your jacket sleeves. Once you get into the habit of always wearing gloves or mittens, you’ll notice a big difference.

It may sound simple, but these easy steps will save your hands and quickly become a part of your daily routine.

Don’t forget to share your hand-care tips. I’d love to hear about the products you’re using.

xx for now

Note: if you’re looking for a winter skin care guide for your face, check out this story I did with Simply Steele for NTV News.