Your hands are exposed to a lot of potential damage every day. Whether it’s from the sun, harsh chemicals, or just wear and tear, your hands can start to show signs of age before you know it.

That’s why it’s important to take steps to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips to maintain young-looking hands:.

Wear Gloves

One of the simplest ways to protect your hands is to wear gloves. If you’re doing household chores, gardening, or working on a project that requires chemicals or other harsh substances, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands.

Look for gloves that are durable enough to withstand the task at hand but also comfortable enough to wear for prolonged periods.

Use Sunscreen

When you’re out and about, you probably don’t think about applying sunscreen to your hands. However, your hands are just as susceptible to sun damage as the rest of your body.

Be sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to your hands whenever you’re going to be exposed to the sun for an extended period.

Moisturize Regularly

Dry skin can make your hands look older than they are. To combat this, you should moisturize your hands regularly. Look for a hand cream that is rich in emollients to help lock in moisture.

Apply the cream after washing your hands, and make sure to reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re washing your hands frequently.

Don’t Forget Your Cuticles

Your cuticles can also start to look ragged and dry if you don’t take care of them. To keep them looking their best, apply a cuticle oil or cream regularly.

This will help to soften the skin and prevent hangnails or other minor irritations from developing.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is not only good for your overall health, but it can also help keep your hands looking young. If you’re dehydrated, your skin can become dry and cracked.

By drinking plenty of water, you’ll help keep your skin hydrated and supple, which can help minimize the signs of aging.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Your diet can also play a role in how your hands look. Eating foods that are rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can help protect your skin from free radical damage.

Additionally, foods that are high in healthy fats, such as nuts and avocados, can help keep your skin moisturized and looking youthful.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise is not only good for your body, but it can also help keep your hands looking young. Regular exercise can help improve circulation, which can bring more oxygen and nutrients to your skin.

Additionally, exercise can help reduce stress, which can be a major contributing factor to premature aging.

Get Plenty of Rest

Getting enough rest is critical to keeping your hands looking their best. When you don’t get enough sleep, your skin can become dull and lackluster. Additionally, lack of sleep can contribute to the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night to help keep your hands looking youthful.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can cause premature aging, including wrinkles and age spots.

If you’re a smoker, consider quitting to help keep your hands looking youthful.

Don’t Neglect Your Nails

Your nails can also start to look old and damaged if you don’t take care of them. To keep them looking their best, be sure to trim and file them regularly.

Additionally, consider applying a strengthening treatment to help prevent them from breaking or peeling.