The hands begin to show signs of neglect and ageing sooner than most other parts of the body. Firstly, the skin on the back of the hands is thin and has few sebaceous glands. The hands also come in contact with soaps and detergents daily, when we perform our washing chores. These play havoc on the skin, making it rough and dry. So, daily care of the hands is very necessary.

Protect your hands
Protect your hands by wearing rubber gloves for your household washing chores. Apply a hand cream at least twice every day, massaging it into the skin. This takes only a few minutes of your time.

Care of the Nails
The nails also reflect neglect, as well as the state of your internal health. A pinkish colour of the nails indicates good health, while a bluish tinge shows poor blood circulation. A healthy nail is smooth and free from ridges and grooves.

Regular care prevents the nails from becoming dry, rough and brittle. These are nails which chip and break easily. Dietary deficiencies can also show up in the form of flaking, cracking, dryness and other problems.

The Cuticle
The cuticle should be kept soft and smooth to prevent it from growing up the nail plate. If the cuticle is not pliable, it adheres to the nail plate and gets dragged by it as it grows. This causes the cuticle to get stretched and torn, leading to what is known as hangnails. It can also be prone to infection and soreness. The daily application and massage of your hands should include the cuticle. Apply cream on the cuticle and massage with your thumb.

Home Care for the Hands
A weekly manicure goes a long way in keeping the hands in good condition. You can also give your hands a luxury treatment at home.
 

• Remove old nail varnish with cotton wool and polish remover. Do not apply too much remover, as it dries out the nail.
• If you wish to cut the nails, use a nail clipper. Then shape your nails into an oval shape, using the emery board. Work in one direction only, not back and forth.
• Soak your hands in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes.
• Wrap cotton wool around the orange stick and push the cuticle back gently. If it tends to adhere, apply some hand cream and then push it back.
• Wrap cotton wool around a thin stick, or use a cotton bus to clean beneath the nails.
• Apply hand cream into the cuticles and skin of the hands and massage for a few minutes. Wipe off excess cream with a moist towel.
• Apply polish, using smooth strokes, from the base to the tip of the nails. Two coats of colour will be needed for an even and smooth finish.

Shapeach has been specially formulated for the care of the hands. It contains apricot and rose oil, along with extracts that are rich in Vitamins B and E. It keeps the skin smooth and youthful and also gives lusture to dry, dull skin.