If your hands become pruny or wrinkly after washing dishes or taking a shower, it is a common and normal reaction of the skin to prolonged exposure to water. The wrinkles or pruning occur due to the outermost layer of your skin absorbing water, which causes it to expand and wrinkle temporarily.
Here are a few tips to help minimize this issue or prevent excessive wrinkling of the skin:
Limit water exposure time: Try to reduce the amount of time your hands are in contact with water. When washing dishes, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from prolonged exposure. When showering, keep the water temperature moderate and avoid excessively long showers.
Moisturize your hands: Applying a moisturizer immediately after washing your hands can help replenish the lost moisture and restore the skin's natural barrier. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or petrolatum, which help lock in moisture.
Use mild soaps or cleansers: Harsh soaps and cleansers can strip away the natural oils from your skin, contributing to dryness and wrinkling. Opt for mild, fragrance-free soaps or cleansers that are gentle on the skin.
Avoid hot water: Hot water can further dry out your skin and exacerbate the wrinkling effect. Use lukewarm or cool water when washing your hands or showering.
Protect your hands: Wear gloves when doing household chores or activities that involve prolonged water exposure. This can help minimize the direct contact of water with your skin.
Hydrate from within: Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can help maintain overall skin hydration, making it less prone to excessive wrinkling.
If despite following these tips, you still experience persistent or severe wrinkling, it may be a good idea to consult a dermatologist. They can evaluate your specific condition and provide further guidance or recommend specialized treatments if needed.