We’ve been told often: wash your hands, stay safe. We feel fresh and clean. Let’s take a closer look to see what actually happens to the skin.
Try remembering the 2 key words – pH and Moisture.
The prime function of the skin is to act as –Physical, chemical, microbial barrier and UV (sunlight) barrier. It alsocontrols water and electrolyte loss.
Every time you wash your hands, you also wash away – The skin’s natural oils – sebum & Its hydrating factors (NMF – Natural Moisturizing Factor). When the skin dries out, the outermost layer cracks resembling a dry parched land. It feels dry, tight and rough.
The pH of the skin is around 5(acidic), at which pH it performs all its functions optimally. The pH of water, as we know it, is neutral – 7. The time to regain this pH balance is about an hour and this grows longer when we use a soap (alkaline).
With loss of both moisture and pH, your barrier shield — starts to break down with repeated and frequent handwashing.
This allows:
- Irritants (like cleaning agents, detergents), Microbes, and even harmless particles in the environment to enter your skin more easily. Non-Allergens Can Become Allergens. Things you’ve touched for years without any problem, can now irritate or even sensitize your skin
The skin starts to react. It can burn, develop red patches that can itch, or even form blisters in severe case
The result?
A perfect storm for what we call as Traumatic Allergic Contact Dermatitis begins, especially in homemakers, nurses, housekeepers and those constantly exposed to detergents and cleaning agents.
How to Break the Cycle?
- Cleanse less if possible
- Switch to pH-balanced, fragrance-free cleansers (cleansers are different from routines washes)
- Always follow up with a thick moisturizing cream or a simple coconut / vegetable oil available in your kitchen. My advice is every time u wash your hands, dry it and moisture. This is a way to restore moisture but not the pH.
- Use gloves for handling detergents
Use of a pH-balanced (acidic) moisturizer and skin-friendly detergents / cleansers helps: Restore enzyme function, Rebuild lipid layers, Calm inflammation, Protect from pathogens. Listen to your Skin & Take Care.
