This guide outlines how to make hands look younger, what makes them start looking older, and what you need to do to avoid further damage from aging.
“How do I make my hands look younger?” is a common question that beauticians and cosmetoligists are often asked. After all, we spend a lot of time, effort and money making our faces look younger, but that can be spoiled if the hands betray your age.
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How to make hands look younger: what to avoid
In wanting to know how do you make your hands look younger, the first thing to do is look at the factors that are leading to your hands showing the signs of age. These include:
Sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can cause skin damage, including wrinkles, age spots (also known as sunspots), and loss of skin elasticity. The skin on your hands is often exposed to the sun, making them susceptible to sun damage.
Thin skin
As you age, the skin on your hands may become thinner, which can make veins and tendons more visible and give your hands a bony or frail appearance.
Dryness
Dry skin can accentuate the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. As you age, your skin may also produce less natural oils, contributing to dryness. How to fix dry, chapped hands.
Loss of collagen and elastin
Collagen and elastin are proteins that provide strength and elasticity to the skin. With age, the production of these proteins decreases, leading to sagging and wrinkles.
Age spots
Age spots, or liver spots, are flat, brown, or grayish patches that can develop on the hands and other areas with sun exposure.
Hand movement
Repetitive hand movements over the years, such as gripping, typing, or using tools, can lead to the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
Neglecting skincare
Neglecting your hands in your skincare routine can accelerate the aging process. Not moisturizing or protecting your hands from the sun can contribute to their aged appearance.
To maintain youthful-looking hands, it’s important to take preventive measures, such as applying sunscreen, moisturizing regularly, and using hand creams that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, and antioxidants to help minimize the effects of aging. You can also consider nonsurgical treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels to reduce the appearance of age spots and wrinkles.
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How to make hands look younger: the key steps
There are several strategies you can implement to make your hands look younger and maintain their youthful appearance:
Sun protection
Protect your hands from the sun’s harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 as one of the first methods for how to make hands look younger. Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially when spending extended periods outdoors.
Moisturize
Keep your hands well-hydrated by using a quality hand cream or moisturizer daily. Look for products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or shea butter to lock in moisture.
Exfoliation
Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and improve the texture of your hands. Consider using a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to promote skin renewal.
Hand treatments
Treat your hands to occasional spa-like treatments in your regime for how to make hands look younger. You can use hydrating masks or hand peels to rejuvenate your skin.
Retinol
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, can help stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Apply a hand cream containing retinol regularly, and be sure to use sunscreen when using retinol products, as they can make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
Antioxidants
Antioxidant-rich hand creams can help protect your skin from free radical damage and improve overall skin health. Look for ingredients like vitamin C and green tea extract.
Hand exercises
Regularly perform hand exercises to improve blood circulation and maintain hand strength, which can help your hands look and feel younger.
Hydrate
Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water can benefit your skin’s overall health and is therefore also an important tactic for how to make hands look younger.
Professional treatments
Consider professional treatments like laser therapy, chemical peels, or dermal fillers for more significant improvements in skin texture, pigmentation, and volume.
Nail care
Well-groomed nails and cuticles can enhance the appearance of your hands. Keep your nails clean, moisturize your cuticles, and maintain a manicure routine. Pay attention to your nails and cuticles as well. Keep them well-groomed and moisturized. Regular nail care can enhance the overall youthful appearance of your hands.
Diet
A healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can promote healthy skin. Foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can help combat the effects of aging.
Conclusion
Maintaining the youthful appearance of your hands requires consistent care and protection over time. Combining these strategies can help reduce the signs of aging and keep your hands looking younger.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska
