Why Dermatologists Are Supporting This Viral Trick for Dry, Cracked Winter Hands
Winter often brings harsh conditions that can severely impact skin health, particularly on the hands. Cold air, low humidity, and frequent exposure to water or harsh chemicals can leave hands rough, flaky, and cracked, sometimes giving them an aged appearance. This issue is especially pronounced because hands have fewer sebaceous glands compared to the face, making them more vulnerable to dryness and wrinkles.
The Science Behind Winter Hand Damage
Dr. Sweety Darall Tomar, a dermatologist and founder of Skinisma Aesthetics, explains that in winter, the skin loses its natural oils due to environmental factors. "Hands lose moisture more quickly than the face, and factors like frequent hand washing, alcohol-based sanitizers, hot water, and detergent exposure further compromise the skin barrier," she says. This leads to extreme dryness, cracks, and an early wrinkled look, often referred to as 'old lady hands.'
Introducing the Hand Slugging Technique
Amid these seasonal challenges, a Germany-based physician, Mahyar 'Max' Maddahali, MD, has popularized a method called hand slugging through social media. In an Instagram Reel, he described it as a transformational hack for dry, damaged hands. The technique involves a simple three-step process:
- Soak the hands in water for five to ten minutes to hydrate the skin.
- Apply a generous amount of a ceramide-based moisturizer to lock in moisture.
- Seal everything with petroleum jelly and wear cotton gloves overnight to enhance absorption.
While soaking isn't mandatory, Dr. Tomar notes it can improve outcomes. "Moisturizers work best on slightly damp skin, as water molecules get trapped. Even washing hands and patting them damp before application is effective," she adds.
How Hand Slugging Works
Dr. Tomar confirms that hand slugging is backed by solid dermatological principles. "It involves applying a thick occlusive product, like petroleum jelly, over a moisturizer to seal in moisture overnight. This prevents trans-epidermal water loss and allows the skin barrier to repair itself," she explains. For extremely dry or cracked hands, this method can work wonders by deeply hydrating and protecting the skin.
Choosing the Right Products
The viral Reel recommends using ceramide-based moisturizers because ceramides are essential components of the skin barrier. However, Dr. Tomar clarifies that if budget is a concern, regular moisturizers with humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid can be just as effective when topped with an occlusive layer. "Petroleum jelly doesn't hydrate on its own but seals moisture in. It's non-comedogenic, safe for hands, and suitable for sensitive skin," she assures.
Frequency and Maintenance
For severely dry hands, hand slugging can be practiced three to four times a week or even nightly for short periods. Once the skin improves, reducing it to once or twice a week is sufficient for maintenance. This approach helps combat winter damage, offering a path to softer, healthier hands without relying on expensive treatments.
While winter's effects on skin may be inevitable, solutions like hand slugging demonstrate that simple, internet-shared tips can sometimes be scientifically sound. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new skincare routine to ensure it's suitable for your individual needs.
