Super Hand Softeners

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

28 Dec 2007 10:48 AM

I've started to notice one little downside to my new part-time job at the cat boarding facility: my hands are starting to show some serious wear and tear. All the cleaning (and cleaning supplies) is leaving my skin rough and dry. I'm going through lotion like it's going out of style! It may be time for some super hand softeners.

Heat is a great way to soothe and rejuvenate skin. Heat helps make your skin more porous, so the skin treatments can be absorbed faster.

There are paraffin dips available in spa versions and home versions. Up until now, I haven't quite seen the attraction of dipping my hands in warm goo... but if it helps soften things up, it might be worth a try. Has anybody out there tried a paraffin dip? Let me know!

I saw a lotion candle and was intrigued! The idea is this: the candle isn't made from traditional candle wax. Instead, it is made from paraffin with vitamin E, soy, and other good stuff. Light the candle and let it melt the lotion wax. Blow out the candle and rub the warm, melty lotion wax onto your hands. This one, I totally want to try. Look for it at your local pharmacy.

You might want to try warming mitts. Fill them with warm water, rub moisturizer onto your hands, then slip on the mitts. The warmth will help your skin absorb the lotion. This one sounds nice and soothing for a before-bed ritual. I bet somebody makes warming booties, too -- a nice warm foot rub sounds great to me! Bath and Body Works carries the mitts, if you're looking for a pair.

If you don't have the time, money, or energy for any of these super hand soothers, here are a few things you can do to keep your hands soft:

• Apply lotion every time you wash your hands.
• Drink plenty of water to hydrate yourself from the inside out.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from cleaning supplies and water -- like when you're cleaning the house or doing dishes.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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Michele Cheplic (37349) 28 Dec 2007 11:17 AM

The paraffin dip is worth it if you get it as part of a package deal with manicure or other spa treatments. Let me know where you find the candle and if it's worth getting... I'd love to try that one--if it's not too expensive.