Why Hands Show Signs of Age First — And How to Care for Them Properly

We spend hours comparing serums, swapping sunscreen recommendations, and perfecting our facial routines. The face gets the spotlight — the rituals, the budget, the focus. But what about the skin we use just as much, expose to even more, and rarely talk about?

Our hands are involved in almost everything we do. They’re washed, dried, sanitised, and constantly exposed to the elements. And while we’re careful to treat our faces gently — choosing the right pH, avoiding harsh ingredients, protecting with SPF — that same care often doesn’t make it to the skin that does the most.

It’s time we thought about our hands not as an afterthought, but as an essential part of our skincare routine.

Why Your Hands Age Faster Than Your Face

The skin on the backs of our hands is naturally thinner and has fewer oil glands. This means it retains less moisture and has a more fragile skin barrier. Without that built-in resilience, it’s easier for your hands to feel dry or to show changes in texture, tone, and elasticity.

Add in constant exposure to water, soap, sanitiser, UV rays, and temperature shifts — plus the wear of everyday tasks — and it’s no surprise that hands are often one of the first areas to show signs of aging.

Fortunately, with the right hand care routine, you can keep your hands soft, hydrated, and supported long term.

How Everyday Habits Affect the Skin on Your Hands

Most hand damage doesn’t come from a single cause — it’s the result of small, repeated habits over time.

• Frequent handwashing removes dirt and germs but also strips away protective oils, especially if you’re using a harsh or drying soap.

• Sanitisers can be dehydrating, particularly those with high alcohol content and no hydrating ingredients.

• Hot water can increase moisture loss from the skin, especially when followed by rubbing with a rough towel.

• Skipping moisturiser after washing leaves the skin vulnerable to dryness and sensitivity.

• Unprotected sun exposure — even just while driving — contributes to sun spots, uneven skin tone, and premature aging.

These small things add up. But they’re also easy to improve.

Myth vs. Fact: Hand Care Edition

Myth: Hot water cleans your hands better.

Fact: The effectiveness of handwashing comes from the friction of rubbing and the soap itself, not the water temperature. Warm or cold water is just as effective as hot water at removing germs. Very hot water can strip natural oils, irritate skin, and damage the skin barrier — especially with frequent washing.

Myth: Antibacterial soap is the best way to keep your hands clean.

Fact: Antibacterial soaps often use harsh detergent-like ingredients that aren’t necessary for everyday use. Regular soap and water remove germs effectively, without disrupting your skin barrier or microbiome.

Myth: All hand wash is the same.

Fact: Many soaps contain harsh ingredients like sulfates and synthetic fragrance that can dry out or irritate your skin. Look for gentle, fragrance-free formulas made without SLS, SLES, parabens, or Cocamidopropyl Betaine to keep your hands clean and comfortable.

Myth: Hand sanitiser always damages your skin.

Fact: Not all sanitisers are created equal. Some are packed with alcohol and leave your hands dry and irritated. Others are thoughtfully formulated with moisturisers like glycerin or aloe to help protect your skin while still killing germs. Always check the ingredients.

Myth: You only need SPF on your hands at the beach.

Fact: Your hands are exposed to UV rays every day — whether you’re walking outside, driving, or even sitting near a window. Applying sunscreen regularly helps prevent sun damage, uneven tone, and premature aging.

Myth: If your hands feel dry, just use more lotion.

Fact: Moisturiser is most effective when applied after washing, while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps seal in hydration, rather than trying to add it back after it’s been lost. Keeping a moisturiser by the sink makes it easy to lock in moisture at the right time.

What a Supportive Hand Care Routine Looks Like

You don’t need a multi-step process — just a few small shifts can protect your skin and help prevent visible signs of aging.

Use a gentle, pH-balanced hand wash

Avoid soaps with sulfates (like SLS or SLES) or synthetic fragrance, which can disrupt the skin barrier. Look for cleansers with ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, oat extract, or aloe.

Pat, don’t rub, your hands dry

Use a soft towel and gently pat dry instead of rubbing, which can cause friction and irritation.

Apply moisturiser after every wash

Keep a hand cream near your sink and in your bag. For best results, apply while skin is still slightly damp. Even a light layer can help restore softness and comfort.

Use SPF 30 or higher

Make it part of your morning routine, just like for your face. Reapply throughout the day, and after you wash your hands.

Choose barrier-friendly formulas

Look for moisturisers that include skin-supportive ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, ceramides, or plant oils. These help keep moisture in and external stressors out.

Looking for a hand wash that’s gentle on your skin and supportive of your daily routine? Explore our upcoming Ocean Waves Hand Wash, designed to protect your barrier and elevate your sink care.

Your Hands Are Part of Your Skin Story

Skincare is about more than just your reflection — it’s about how your skin feels as you move through the world. Your hands are central to that experience. They type, cook, clean, comfort, carry. They deserve care that reflects what they do for you.

With just a few small changes — a thoughtful hand wash, consistent moisture, and daily SPF — you can help your hands feel comfortable and supported, day after day.

It doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be considered.