Can washing hands too frequently be unhealthy?

Excessive handwashing is often linked to psychological disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), where the urge to wash hands over and over again comes from repetitive rituals that are meant to ease worries about germs or contamination. Moreover, people with general health anxiety might also wash their hands excessively to get rid of fears of illness, finding temporary relief in the act.

How can excessive handwashing affect your skin?

“Frequent handwashing or even excessive usage of hand sanitizers can lead to skin irritation and other problems. It can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness, redness, and irritation.” said Dr Fayaz. It can remove the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, redness, and irritation. Rashes from hand washing usually appear on the backs of the hands and between the fingers, making the skin more prone to conditions like eczema or dermatitis, which cause inflammation, itching, and cracking.

Rashes from hand washing usually appear on the backs of the hands and between the fingers, making the skin more prone to conditions like eczema or dermatitis. (Source: Freepik)

How often is it recommended to wash your hands daily?

“For most people, washing hands 5 to 10 times a day is sufficient in order to maintain hygiene and be protected from germs and bacteria.” said Dr Fayaz. The necessary times for hand washing are before and after meals, after using the restroom, and following coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. It’s also important to wash them after touching shared surfaces or objects, such as public transportation or doorknobs, and whenever your hands are visibly dirty.

However, if handwashing is causing skin problems, it may be beneficial to review handwashing practices and keep your hands moisturized. For this, you can apply a rich hand cream or lotion containing ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, or ceramides. You can also go for hand lotions with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Additionally, wash your hands with lukewarm water rather than hot water, and gently pat them dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing them together.