USE A MILD SOAP
It's beneficial to use milder soaps on the skin, as they don't strip the natural oils away. Whether liquid or bar, look for hand soaps made with a high percentage of natural ingredients.
:: Haeckels Bladderwrack + Fennel Hand Cleanser, £34
EXFOLIATE REGULARLY
Exfoliate your hands at least once a week to keep the skin glowing and radiant, just like you would the rest of your body; it will also help your moisturiser to absorb better into the skin.
:: Lush Salted Coconut Hand Scrub, £9
MOISTURISE WHENEVER YOU WASH
Keep a hand cream next to your hand soap, to help you get in the habit of moisturising after washing your hands. Regular washing is key for hygiene, but one of the biggest culprits for dry, uncomfortable skin – so keep hands hydrated and nourished after each wash.
:: Liz Earle Superskin Hand Serum, £23.50
TRY A DIY HAND MASK
Apply a generous layer of intensive hand cream (ideally with high amounts of shea butter in) all over your hands and leave for five to 10 minutes, as a mask for extra nourishment. Tissue off the excess at the end and massage the rest in, says Caroline Matthews of L'Occitane.
:: L'Occitane Shea Intensive Hand Balm, £23
SLATHER ON SPF
Sunscreen is an absolute must for anyone concerned with anti-ageing, but most people neglect to protect their hands.
:: Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Anti-Ageing Hand Cream SPF 25, £4.79, Boots
PROTECT YOUR PAWS
Try to wear gloves when gardening or washing up, to prevent drying out the skin as much as possible. They may not look very cool, but a pair of Marigolds will save you from prune-like fingers and flaky skin.
