Washing dishes can sometimes cause our hands to hurt or crack due to a combination of factors:
Repeated Exposure to Water and Detergents: Constantly immersing your hands in hot water and using dishwashing detergents can strip your skin of its natural oils. These oils act as a protective barrier, helping to retain moisture and keep the skin soft and supple. When the oils are removed, the skin becomes dry and more susceptible to damage.
Friction and Mechanical Stress: Scrubbing dishes with a sponge or brush can create friction and mechanical stress on the skin. Over time, this can lead to irritation and small injuries, such as microtears in the skin's surface.
Hot Water: Washing dishes with hot water can further exacerbate the problem. Hot water can cause the skin to lose its natural oils more quickly, leading to dryness and potential cracking.
Chemical Sensitivity: Some people may be more sensitive to the chemicals present in dishwashing detergents. Harsh or irritating ingredients in the detergents can cause allergic reactions or further dry out the skin.
Lack of Moisturizing: Often, people don't moisturize their hands after washing dishes, especially during quick clean-up sessions. Failure to replenish lost moisture can lead to dryness and cracking.
Prolonged Exposure: People who have to wash dishes frequently or for extended periods, such as in restaurants or busy households, are more likely to experience hand issues due to the cumulative effect of repeated exposure to water, detergents, and friction.
To prevent or alleviate the discomfort associated with dishwashing, consider the following tips:
Use gloves: Wearing rubber or latex gloves can protect your hands from direct contact with water and detergents, minimizing the drying effect.
Use milder detergents: Opt for dishwashing detergents that are labeled as gentle or mild on the skin.
Avoid very hot water: Use warm water instead of hot water, as extremely hot water can be harsh on the skin.
Moisturize regularly: Apply a moisturizing cream or lotion after washing dishes to replenish lost moisture and keep your skin hydrated.
Take breaks: If you're washing a large number of dishes, take short breaks to allow your skin to recover.
By taking these precautions and caring for your hands, you can minimize the discomfort and potential cracking caused by dishwashing.