Remedies For Dry Hands During Pregnancy

Dry hands are a common issue that many women experience during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and environmental factors can all contribute to this problem. The good news is that there are several remedies and lifestyle changes you can try to alleviate dry hands and keep your skin moisturized and healthy throughout your pregnancy journey.

Understanding Dry Hands During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause your skin to become drier than usual. Additionally, increased blood flow to your growing baby may lead to a reduction in blood supply to your extremities, which can result in dryness and tightness in your hands. Environmental factors such as cold weather, low humidity, and frequent hand washing with harsh soaps can further exacerbate the problem.

Common Causes of Dry Hands During Pregnancy

  1. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels can affect the moisture balance of your skin, leading to dryness.
  2. Increased Blood Flow: As blood flow diverts toward the fetus, the hands may receive less blood supply, causing dryness.
  3. Environmental Factors: Cold weather, low humidity, and frequent hand washing can strip the natural oils from your skin, leaving them dry and irritated.

Symptoms of Dry Hands During Pregnancy

Dry hands during pregnancy can present with various symptoms, including:

  • Itchy skin: Dry hands may feel itchy and uncomfortable, leading to scratching and potential skin irritation.
  • Flaky or cracked skin: The lack of moisture can cause your skin to flake or even crack, which can be painful.
  • Tightness or discomfort: Dryness in the hands can make the skin feel tight and uncomfortable.

Skin Care Tips for Treating Dry Hands During Pregnancy

To combat dry hands during pregnancy, it’s important to adopt a proper skincare routine that focuses on moisturizing and protecting the skin. Here are some helpful tips:

  1. Using Gentle Cleansers: Switch to mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid further drying out your hands.
  2. Moisturizing Regularly: Apply a rich, hydrating hand cream multiple times a day to keep your skin moisturized and supple.
  3. Protecting Hands from Harsh Conditions: Wear gloves when exposed to cold weather or engaging in activities that may irritate or dry out your hands.

Natural Home Remedies for Dry Hands During Pregnancy

In addition to following a proper skincare routine, there are several natural remedies you can try to alleviate dryness in your hands:

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is known for its moisturizing and soothing properties. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to your hands and gently massage it in. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural emollient that locks in moisture and helps repair the skin barrier. Massage a small amount of coconut oil onto your hands until fully absorbed. Repeat as needed throughout the day.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a rich and nourishing moisturizer that can deeply hydrate dry skin. Apply shea butter to your hands and gently massage it in until fully absorbed. Use it as often as necessary to keep your hands soft and supple.

Oatmeal Soak

An oatmeal soak can help soothe and hydrate your dry hands. Mix a cup of finely ground oatmeal with warm water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to your hands and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Honey and Milk

A mixture of honey and milk can provide nourishment and hydration to your dry skin. Mix equal parts honey and milk, and apply the mixture to your hands. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Medical Treatments for Dry Hands During Pregnancy

If home remedies and lifestyle changes do not provide sufficient relief, consult with a dermatologist or your healthcare provider. They may recommend the following medical treatments:

Prescription Moisturizers

In some cases, your dermatologist may prescribe a stronger moisturizing cream or ointment to combat the severe dryness in your hands.

Corticosteroid Creams

Inflammation and itchiness caused by dry hands can be relieved with the use of corticosteroid creams prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Antihistamine Medications

If dry hands are accompanied by intense itching or an allergic reaction, antihistamine medications may be prescribed to help alleviate these symptoms.

Consultation with Dermatologist

A dermatologist can provide personalized advice and recommend treatments tailored to your specific needs and medical history.

Precautions and Safety Measures for Treating Dry Hands During Pregnancy

While managing dry hands during pregnancy, it’s crucial to take certain precautions to ensure your overall well-being:

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

Avoid using harsh soaps, hand sanitizers containing alcohol, and other chemical-laden products that can further dry out your hands.

Staying Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated, which can help maintain moisture levels in your skin.

Wearing Gloves

Protect your hands by wearing gloves when engaging in activities that may expose them to harsh conditions, such as washing dishes or cleaning with chemicals.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Dry Hands During Pregnancy

Here are some lifestyle changes that can help prevent dry hands during pregnancy:

Eating a Nutrient-rich Diet

Include foods in your diet that are rich in healthy fats and nutrients, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and fish, which can help nourish and moisturize your skin from within.

Using a Humidifier

Using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the air and prevent dryness, not only for your hands but for your overall skin health.

Limiting Hand Washing

While hand hygiene is essential, excessive hand washing with hot water and harsh soaps can strip away the natural oils from your skin. Try to reduce the frequency of hand washing unless necessary.

Conclusion

Dry hands during pregnancy can be irritating and uncomfortable, but with the right skincare routine, natural remedies, and lifestyle changes, you can effectively manage and prevent dryness. Remember to moisturize regularly, protect your hands, and consult with a healthcare professional if needed. By taking these steps, you can keep your hands soft, smooth, and healthy throughout your pregnancy journey.

Photo of author

Nancy Sherman

Nancy Sherman has more than a decade of experience in education and is passionate about helping schools, teachers, and students succeed. She began her career as a Teaching Fellow in NY where she worked with educators to develop their instructional practice. Since then she held diverse roles in the field including Educational Researcher, Academic Director for a non-profit foundation, Curriculum Expert and Coach, while also serving on boards of directors for multiple organizations. She is trained in Project-Based Learning, Capstone Design (PBL), Competency-Based Evaluation (CBE) and Social Emotional Learning Development (SELD).