Has Hand Washing Left Your Hands Dry and Cracked?

By Sydney Tateo, DNP, ARNP

With the current COVID-19 pandemic going on, we are all obsessing over sanitizing everything, from our hands to all the surfaces they touch. While this practice is critical in breaking the cycle of infection, all of this hand washing has inevitably left us feeling a bit dry. What can be done to combat this issue?

The first thing is to adjust the temperature of the water. Instead of using hot water, use lukewarm water. Secondly, change the soap you are using at home. When you are home doing simple things around the house and you need to wash your hands, opt for a gentle cleanser or even creamy wash rather than dish soap, antibacterial soap, or a harsh detergent. Alcohol- based sanitizers and antibacterial soaps may be all that is available in certain situations, so after washing your hands, moisturize! One pump of moisturizer or hand cream will replace natural oils and soothe dry, cracked skin. Other simple tips are to eliminate “wet-work” as much as possible. Repeatedly getting your hands wet will actually dry them out even more.

Wear gloves when doing dishes and cleaning the house. This will protect your hands against the harsh chemicals found in cleaning products, but also keep your hands dry.

And lastly, before bed, apply a generous layer of a rich hand cream or ointment and allow it to soak overnight.

For additional questions or concerns, call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our providers!

EDUCATION
• Bachelor of science, nursing, summa cum laude, University of Florida
• Doctor of nursing practice, summa cum laude, University of Florida

ACCREDITATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
• Board certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
• American Academy of Dermatology
• National Academy of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners
• American Association of Nurse Practitioners
• Sigma Theta Tau Honors Society

Sydney is a board-certified nurse practitioner who grew up in Naples. She attended the University of Florida for both her undergraduate and graduate programs. In addition to her academic achievements, Sydney has also published research in the Journal of American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

While pursuing her doctorate degree, Sydney worked as a registered nurse in dermatology. Her invaluable background as a bedside nurse underlies her individualized approach to each patient. Upon completion of her doctoral program, she continued her career in dermatology. Trained by several recognized dermatologists and Mohs surgeons, Sydney joins Skin Wellness Physicians with diverse training and experience. She treats a wide array of skin, hair, and nail conditions and welcomes both pediatric and adult patients.

Sydney is an active member in her community and has volunteered for several years at the Neighborhood Health Clinic.

239.732.0044
www.SkinWellnessFiorida.com