The biggest beauty mistake we all make

Every day I use sun protection, rain or shine. Because even when the sun isn't shining, you can still get sun damage and the sun can claw its way into your skin. But what I forget is to apply lotion to my hands. And those might catch the most sun of all. What do you think happens when you're sitting in the car and the light comes through your windshield? Or when they're under a fast dryer at the nail salon?

I consulted skin therapist Annelijn van Ierland, who told me this: “Aging of the hands is a common problem and can often reveal someone's true age. Because hands are regularly exposed to external factors such as sun, water, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations, they can show signs of aging faster than other parts of the body. Wrinkles and fine lines, thinner skin, age spots, and a dry, rough skin are the result.”

I must say that I have already gone to Annelijn to get rid of those annoying pigment spots through laser treatments. I found it a miracle; everything was gone within a week. Or “tidied up,” as Annelijn says. It all comes from this.

Causes of skin aging on the hands

1. Exposure to UV radiation: This is one of the main causes of skin aging. Sun rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, thinning skin, and age spots (sun spots or age spots). These spots develop from years of sun exposure.

2. Decrease in collagen production and loss of volume: The production of collagen gradually decreases as we age. Collagen is an essential protein that keeps the skin firm and elastic. A decrease in this leads to sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles. Our hands also lose fat tissue, making bones and veins more visible, contributing to an aged appearance.

3. A dry skin: This is caused by loss of moisture and exposure to irritating products. Regular hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, and exposure to cold or dry air can damage the skin barrier and cause the skin to lose moisture. This leads to dry skin.

4. So far the bad news. There is also good news, because something can be done about it:

5. Sun protection: The simplest and most effective way to prevent further damage is to use sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or higher) daily. This prevents further breakdown of collagen and elastin by UV rays.

6. Retinoids and vitamin C: Topical retinoids stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps reduce pigmentation spots and improves overall skin quality.

7. Mild peels: Glycolic acid or salicylic acid can help remove dead skin cells, improve texture, and reduce pigmentation spots.

8. Laser treatments: These are effective for reducing pigmentation spots and stimulating collagen production, making the skin look more even and younger.

9.  Hand masks and paraffin: These can help hydrate the hands and improve skin texture.

10. Wear gloves: This applies to household tasks and in winter, to protect the skin from the cold.

11. Moisturize regularly: Apply hand cream after every wash to prevent moisture loss. Use products with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides to retain moisture and restore the skin barrier. This helps keep the skin supple and smooth.

12. Avoid excessive sun exposure: Use sunscreen, even on cloudy days.

And if you, like me, suffer from those spots, race to Annelijn. She'll help you get rid of them.

Annelijn van Ierland is a skin therapist, scientific researcher (MSc), and founder of Skin Clinic. She has nearly twenty years of experience in skin and the cosmetic and medical applications of laser on the skin.