Winter can do quite a number on our skin. As time passes, our hands keep score. The skin on your hands is the thinnest on the human body, rivaled only by the petal-thin epidermis of the eyelids. Unlike the eye orbit and the rest of the face, your hands contain zero sebaceous (oil) glands, meaning that your hands have little to no natural protection from the elements, ranging from skin-shriveling UV to harsh soaps and hand sanitizers. 

Even the glossiest, glammest nails can’t shine bright if the skin of your hands looks dull and dry and feels rough. Whip up this yummy organic scrub in your own kitchen to gently exfoliate, then follow with moisturizer and sun screen. Um, yes, you do need to wear sun screen, especially on your hands which are exposed to sun and all kinds of weather year-round. 

For spring 2023, we’re loving Coppertone Every Tone, a moisturizing but lightweight broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen lotion that leaves no chalky residue, even on deep-toned skin. Dermatologist Susan C. Taylor, MD, Vice Chair for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, University of Pennsylvania, says:

“There are several compelling reasons for the use of sunscreen to ensure Beautiful Black Skin. Although melanin provides some measure of protection from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light, it does not provide complete protection. This means that Black skin is not immune to sunburns, sun damage, and aging changes. In fact, with aging, uneven skin tone, discolorations and an overall darkening of the skin may occur. Regular sunscreen use will help to prevent (and may even help to treat) these skin changes.”