Most of us worry about our faces when it comes to developing an anti-aging routine. However, if you let your hands go, they are a good indicator of age and can make you look older than you are.
Here are some things that are making your hands look old and how to fix them fast:
1. Crepey skin
If the backs of your hands are starting to look crepey and wrinkly, you should start using a prescription retinoid cream. This will improve the texture and improve the growth of collagen, which will make your hands appear younger and the skin appear thicker. Ask your dermatologist for a cream that is right for you.
2. Age Spots
Age spots and sun spots come from sun exposure over time. They are brown spots that may show up sooner for those who spend a lot of time in the sun, but most commonly appear in people over 50. Make sure to use SPF every day and reapply after you wash your hands to prevent new spots from appearing. To get rid of age spots, use an over the counter fade cream that contains 2% hydroquinone. Make sure to use the cream properly, because it is technically a bleaching cream.
3. Veins
The bad news is that very prominent veins will only go away with a surgical procedure called a vein removal. If you don’t want to go to those lengths, try using a heavy duty concealer if you feel self-conscious. These can cover veins very well. The only downside is you may need to reapply after washing your hands.
4. Dry, scaly skin
Everyone can get dry and scaly skin, especially in winter months. To get your hands looking young and moisturized again, use a gentle scrub to get rid of dead skin cells. Then use a heavy duty moisturizer. Slather well and slip on some gloves before bed to let the lotion soak in overnight. You should wake up with super soft, moisturized hands. You can also try a paraffin wax treatment to help moisturize your skin fast.
5. Stained or brittle nails
Your nails can also age you. If your nails are turning yellow and brown and you have pain, see your doctor to rule out a fungal infection. If it isn’t an infection, they are probably just stained from nail polish. Rub your nails with a lemon to brighten the nail or soak in a denture cleaner for 15 to 20 minutes to remove stains. If your nails are more brittle than stained, make sure you are getting your vitamins. Increase your dose of vitamin B biotin and see if that improves your nails.
Do you think your hands are aging you prematurely? What is your main hand or nail concern? If you found this article helpful, share with a friend!