Try this: Wash up
- Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Clean hands is not just good hygiene but also a simple way to protect against colds and flu. But proper handwashing is not a five-second job. Here's how to do it right.
Get some soap. Any type of soap will work. Some contain moisturizing ingredients that help with dry skin, such as glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, avocado oil, shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil.
Lather up. Use lukewarm water (very hot water doesn't eliminate more germs). Wet your hands and lather them with soap for 20 seconds (or sing "Happy Birthday" twice). Pay attention to the backs of your hands and the areas between your fingers and around your nails. (A hand and nail brush can help.) Rinse and pat dry with a clean towel.
Moisturize. Next, rub a pea-sized amount of thick hand cream, salve, or ointment into a palm and spread all around your hand. Repeat with the other hand. Avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances or dyes as they cause irritation. For very dry or cracking hands, soften them while you sleep; apply a thick moisturizer before bed and slip on a pair of cotton gloves.
Repeat. Wash your hands when you come inside; after using the bathroom, sneezing, or coughing; before preparing food and eating; and after touching pets. A good rule to follow: when in doubt, wash up.
Image: © Tetra Images/Getty Images
About the Author
Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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