How to Take Care of Gardening Hands
Taking care of a garden is unquestionably a labour of love. While your flourishing plants get all the attention and praise, the toll that gardening can take on your hands might go unnoticed. So, isn’t it time we look after the hands that work so passionately to bring life and beauty into our gardens?
Here are some helpful tips on how to take care of those committed, green-fingered hands...
Here are some helpful tips on how to take care of those committed, green-fingered hands...
Wear Suitable Gloves
Invest in durable gloves that protect against scratches, blisters, and direct contact with soil. Full-coverage, water-resistant gloves are ideal for heavy-duty tasks, while cloth gloves can handle simple weeding or planting. Make sure they are a snug fit as lose gloves can cause friction and blisters.
Clean Your Hands Properly
Hand hygiene is crucial when you're frequently dealing with soil and plants. A good scrubbing brush will deal with the stubborn dirt that gets into the creases and crevices of your skin and nails. Consider a good old traditional soap bar for cleansing, Navy's Signature Soap Bar provides a gentle yet effective cleanse, removing impurities while moisturising and nourishing your skin. And it smells divine.
Image credit: @nails_and_beauty_by_francesca
Maintain Your Nails
Gardening can be rough on your nails. Keep them trimmed short and clean the undersides regularly. You could also try using a clear nail hardener or polish to provide an additional layer of protection from dirt and moisture.
Moisturise Regularly
Working with soil and outdoor conditions can draw the natural moisture from your skin, making your hands dry and rough. Use a good quality hand cream consisting of ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, or vitamin E. Alternatively Navy Hand Balm is uniquely intense and long-lasting; a little bit will go a very long way. Apply it after each gardening session, and don't neglect your wrists and forearms.
Image credit: @mimijobeauty
Weekly Hand Soaks
Reward your hard-working hands with a warm hand soak once a week. Add in some Epsom salts for their anti-inflammatory benefits, and consider a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or chamomile for extra relaxation.
Protect Against the Sun
Sun protection isn’t just for beaches and sunny holidays. Invest in a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays – apply it liberally covering all exposed areas of your hands and arms.
Massage Your Hands
End your gardening day with a simple hand massage. It will stimulate blood circulation, soothe muscles, and promote overall relaxation. Use a nourishing oil or cream and apply gentle pressure. Prefer a hand mask, Navy's Nourish Hand Gloves enriched with shea butter are a real indulgent treat.
Remember, like the plants you nurture, your hands need constant care too. Implement these tips into your gardening routine, and you'll notice that not only will your garden prosper, but your hands will also be healthier, softer, and more resilient. Maybe take a leaf - pun intended- out of your gardening book and sow the seeds for nourished and happy hands. Happy gardening!