How To Get Soft Hands (with Pictures) - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Get Soft Hands PDF download Download Article Co-authored by R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH

Last Updated: April 29, 2025 Approved

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  • Treating Dry Hands
    • |
  • Preventing Dry Hands
    • |
  • A Quick Potion
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
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This article was co-authored by R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. Dr. R. Sonia Batra is a board certified Dermatologist and the Founder of Batra Dermatology based in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Batra specializes in lasers, medical devices, patient and public medical education, and skin cancer research. She received her Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in Public Health, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees from Harvard University. As a Rhodes Scholar, she earned a Master’s degree in Molecular Genetics at the University of Oxford. She completed her residency training in Dermatology at Stanford University. Dr. Batra has contributed and reviewed for the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and JAMA Dermatology. She is also a co-host of CBS’ Emmy award-winning television show, The Doctors. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 1,219,942 times.

Cold temperatures and frequent use can have your soft skin looking like the Grand Canyon in the middle of winter -- though, your hands can get rough in any season. To get soft hands regardless of the time of year, you'll need to treat existing dryness with lotions, natural oils, sugar scrubs, protective coverings, and the occasional deep-conditioning salve. You should also prevent your newly softened hands from getting rough by switching to gentle hand soaps, avoiding hot water, staying hydrated, and wearing gloves to avoid exposure to drying elements. Soft hands look and feel fantastic, and are easy to get for nearly everyone willing to put in the effort.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Treating Dry Hands

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  1. Step 1 Moisturize your hands with lotion. 1 Moisturize your hands with lotion. Lotion is the easiest and most important way to keep your hands soft. At the store, lotion is available in dozens of scents and styles to meet your personal needs.
    • Moisturize your hands every time you wash them. Keep small bottles at regular places around the house, so you always have some on hand.[1]
    • Look for lotions that contain shea butter, B vitamins, and retinol. These ingredients keep your skin soft long after you’ve applied the lotion.
    • Mineral oils and lanolin help to trap water in the skin. Lotions with lactic acid and urea have soothing qualities, as well. Glycerin and dimethicone help to moisturize, while hyaluronic acid can help retain that moisture.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 2 Treat your hands with natural oils. If you don't want to buy lotion, you can also use natural oils to rub into your hands, just as you would regular lotion.[2] A very small amount goes a long way, as well, making this a cheap alternative. All of the following natural oils are used in cooking, but are nourishing and healthy for skin, nails, and hair when applied regularly:
    • Avocado
    • Almond
    • Aloe vera gels
    • Coconut
    • Cocoa butter
    • Sunflower
    • Olive
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 3 Make your own sugar scrub. Exfoliant scrubs are usually just moisturizing lotion with some grit in it, included to help scrub off dead skin. These are available in most beauty supply and drugstores, but you can make your own for cheap at home:
    • Combine a few tablespoons of white sugar with olive oil or coconut oil to form a paste, and rub it into your hands for two minutes. Rinse with warm water, and you should be left with hands that are much softer than prior to your scrub.[3]
    • If you like, add a few drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil to add a nice smell to the lotion. If you don't want to use sugar, use grated beeswax or salt.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 4 Condition your hands every few weeks in winter. When the temperature drops, your skin suffers. If you live in a cold area, use a deep-conditioning treatment with an old pair of socks to keep your hands soft. It's simple and effective:
    • Heat of a pair of clean socks in the microwave for 15 seconds. Put a generous amount of your favorite lotion on your skin, but don't rub it in.
    • Put the socks on your hands, and let your hands soak it all in for 10-20 minutes. Remove the socks and continue rubbing in the remaining lotion.
    • You can do this and leave the socks on overnight to help with extra dry skin. While it might seem weird, socks are usually better and easier to clean than gloves.
  5. Step 5 Use deep-conditioning salve when necessary. 5 Use deep-conditioning salve when necessary. If your hands are peeled and cracking, bring out the big guns. Use a conditioning hand salve, like Bag Balm, or a similar product. These are gel-like creams used for healing deeply dry skin. Rub it into your knuckles, palms, and other problem spots for several days until your skin has softened.
  6. Step 6 Take a moisturizing supplement. 6 Take a moisturizing supplement. A recent study revealed that flax and borage supplements helped increase moisture and decrease roughness in skin. These fatty acids are found in most well-balanced diets, but if you're struggling with extremely dry skin, a supplement of flaxseed, borage oil, or evening-primrose might be effective in helping to control it.[4]
  7. Step 7 Avoid petroleum jelly and lemon juice. 7 Avoid petroleum jelly and lemon juice. It's a common home remedy to use petroleum jelly or lemon juice on to dry skin to soften it up, but both of these should generally be avoided when you're treating dry skin, in favor of other more nourishing remedies. Neither is recommended by the medical community.[5]
    • Petroleum jelly actually acts as a moisture-barrier, not a moisturizer. While it is effective in preventing chaffing and "locking moisture in," it's not a moisturizer, and won't treat dry hands alone.
    • There's some controversy about whether or not lemon juice can be used to exfoliate skin and soften it, or whether or not the citric acid in the lemon juice acts more as an irritant.[6] Never apply lemon juice if you're going to be exposed to the sun, because it makes your skin prone to burning.
    8. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Preventing Dry Hands

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  1. Step 1 Use gentle, natural hand soaps. 1 Use gentle, natural hand soaps. Washing your hands regularly is beneficial for good hygiene, but it can also seriously dry your skin out. Find soaps that are skin-sensitive and contain moisturizing ingredients such as jojoba or olive oil, which nourish and heal dry hands.[7]
    • Avoid alcohol and glycerine-based hand sanitizers, which dry out the skin on your hands.
    • Sub out regular body wash or soap for something with moisturizing ingredients as well, so that you aren’t damaging your hands in your regular showers.
  2. Step 2 Avoid extremely hot water. 2 Avoid extremely hot water. Very hot water can actually burn your skin and dry out your hands.[8] It might not be recognizable as a "burn," but if your skin turns slightly red in the sink or bath, the water is too hot.
  3. Step 3 Use dish gloves when you wash dishes. 3 Use dish gloves when you wash dishes. Dish soap is one of the most aggressive and irritating forms of soap for your hands. When you wash dishes, especially in the wintertime, it's a good idea to use a pair of yellow dish gloves to keep your hands dry. This is very true if you're submerging your hands in the water.
  4. Step 4 Wear gloves outside. 4 Wear gloves outside. If you’re outside a lot, do what you can to keep your skin soft even when facing nasty weather. In the fall and winter months, wear gloves to protect your hands from the wind.
  5. Step 5 Wear sunscreen. 5 Wear sunscreen. Your hands are just as susceptible to the damages of the sun as the other parts of your body that are exposed. While most people don't want to wear gloves in the summer time, go for sunscreen instead.[9]
    • Go for as high an SPF rating as you can get. If you're out in the sun, there's little point in wasting time with anything rated less than 20.
  6. Step 6 Stay well hydrated. 6 Stay well hydrated. If you're not getting enough water, your skin will dry out. Diet plays a big role in your skin health, making it important that you get at least 8 glasses, or around two liters of water each day.[10]
    • Alcohol can dehydrate you, which can in turn result in dryer skin. If you struggle with dry skin, avoid the overconsumption of alcohol.
    7. Advertisement
Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

A Quick Potion

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 1 Mix together a bit of hair shampoo, conditioner and lotion in a bowl or in your hand.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 2 Add in a bit of handwash or liquid soap and stir using your finger or a spoon.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 3 Put the mixture into your hands and rub until it is evenly distributed.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 4 Using a towel, get as much as you can off of your hands. Remember to wash the towel once you're done.
  5. Step 5 Leave your hands like that for half an hour. 5 Leave your hands like that for half an hour.
  6. Step 6 After the time has passed, you hands should feel weird and a bit sticky. 6 After the time has passed, you hands should feel weird and a bit sticky. Go to the sink.
  7. Step 7 Put some lotion and hand-wash in your hands and rub. 7 Put some lotion and hand-wash in your hands and rub.
  8. Watermark wikiHow to Get Soft Hands 8 Wash your hands and then pat them down with a towel.
  9. Step 9 Enjoy! 9 Enjoy!
    10. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

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  • Question What is a natural remedy for dry hands? R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. R. Sonia Batra is a board certified Dermatologist and the Founder of Batra Dermatology based in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Batra specializes in lasers, medical devices, patient and public medical education, and skin cancer research. She received her Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in Public Health, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees from Harvard University. As a Rhodes Scholar, she earned a Master’s degree in Molecular Genetics at the University of Oxford. She completed her residency training in Dermatology at Stanford University. Dr. Batra has contributed and reviewed for the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and JAMA Dermatology. She is also a co-host of CBS’ Emmy award-winning television show, The Doctors. R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Answer Try using lukewarm water when you wash your hands since hot water can dry out your skin. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 8
  • Question How can I make my hands soft in one day? R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. R. Sonia Batra is a board certified Dermatologist and the Founder of Batra Dermatology based in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Batra specializes in lasers, medical devices, patient and public medical education, and skin cancer research. She received her Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in Public Health, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees from Harvard University. As a Rhodes Scholar, she earned a Master’s degree in Molecular Genetics at the University of Oxford. She completed her residency training in Dermatology at Stanford University. Dr. Batra has contributed and reviewed for the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and JAMA Dermatology. She is also a co-host of CBS’ Emmy award-winning television show, The Doctors. R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Answer Make sure you apply a moisturizer every time you wash your hands to keep them soft and prevent them from drying out. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 15
  • Question Which cream should I use to make my hands softer? Community Answer Community Answer You could try common moisturizers, like Gold Bond. However, coconut oil and olive oil work very well too. They're also good for your nails. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 45
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Video

Reader Videos

Tips

  • Don't wash your hands with hot water. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 1
  • Applying castor oil allows your hands to become soft and smooth. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 2
  • Rub your hands with the inside of an avocado to moisturize and soften them. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 2
Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Keep in mind any skin allergies or conditions (such as sensitive skin) and test out lotion on a patch of skin before you apply to your entire hand. Discontinue use of any product(s) if it irritates you. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
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Things You'll Need

  • Moisturizing/Hydrating soap
  • Warm water
  • Lotion
  • Sugar and olive oil or commercial exfoliant
  • Deep conditioning salve (optional)
  • Deep conditioning treatment
  • Pair of socks
  • Gloves
  • Sunscreen

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References

  1. ↑ R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. Board Certified Dermatologist. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ http://www.motherearthnews.com/natural-health/dry-skin-zbcz1311.aspx
  3. ↑ https://www.lovetoknowhealth.com/skin-and-body/exfoliating-hands
  4. ↑ http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/does-drinking-water-hydrate-skin
  5. ↑ http://dailymakeover.com/bad-diy-skin-care/
  6. ↑ http://www.newhealthguide.org/Lemon-Juice-On-Skin.html
  7. ↑ R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. Board Certified Dermatologist. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. Board Certified Dermatologist. Expert Interview
  9. ↑ https://oureverydaylife.com/smooth-soft-hands-feet-30381.html
More References (1)
  1. ↑ http://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/skincare/does-drinking-water-hydrate-skin

About This Article

R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Co-authored by: R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Board Certified Dermatologist This article was co-authored by R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH. Dr. R. Sonia Batra is a board certified Dermatologist and the Founder of Batra Dermatology based in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Batra specializes in lasers, medical devices, patient and public medical education, and skin cancer research. She received her Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in Public Health, and her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees from Harvard University. As a Rhodes Scholar, she earned a Master’s degree in Molecular Genetics at the University of Oxford. She completed her residency training in Dermatology at Stanford University. Dr. Batra has contributed and reviewed for the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and JAMA Dermatology. She is also a co-host of CBS’ Emmy award-winning television show, The Doctors. This article has been viewed 1,219,942 times. How helpful is this? Co-authors: 99 Updated: April 29, 2025 Views: 1,219,942 Categories: Dry Skin Care Article SummaryX

If you want to have soft hands, rub a very small amount of almond oil, coconut oil, or olive oil into your hands regularly to nourish your skin. You can also make your own exfoliating scrub by mixing a few tablespoons of sugar with olive oil or coconut oil to form a paste. Then rub it into your hands for 2 minutes, rinse it off with warm water, and feel how soft your hands are! If your hands are really rough or cracked and peeling, try using a conditioning hand salve, like Bag Balm, for a few days. For more tips on having soft hands, including how to protect them from heat and hot water, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Co-authored by: R. Sonia Batra, MD, MSc, MPH Board Certified Dermatologist Click a star to vote Co-authors: 99 Updated: April 29, 2025 Views: 1,219,942 Jaire Ascencio

Jaire Ascencio

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"This article has helped me in so many ways, because I did truly not know that I had to drink two liters or 8..." more Anonymous

Anonymous

May 31, 2017

"My mom is always complaining about how dry my hands are. The sugar and olive oil seems to already be working, as..." more Rated this article: Jillian Williams

Jillian Williams

Sep 3, 2019

"I have always had the roughest hands in my family, and I wanted them to be softer. This really helped me and made..." more Donna Roberts

Donna Roberts

Dec 10, 2017

"Great hints! Very good article employing lots of simple home remedies. Will be trying some of these today." Sadie Menzines

Sadie Menzines

Dec 13, 2016

"Oh my gosh! This helped so much, thanks! It worked really well, and my hands feel moist already. " Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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