Frequent handwashing and sanitiser use are important for hygiene, but they can leave hands dry, tight and even cracked, especially around knuckles and fingertips. The skin barrier on your hands needs support to keep up.
First, use lukewarm, not hot, water when washing. Hot water strips oils faster. Choose a mild hand soap instead of very harsh, heavily perfumed ones. Pat hands dry rather than rubbing vigorously.
Apply a simple, fragrance-free hand cream after washing whenever possible. Think of moisturiser as part of the hygiene routine, not an optional extra. At night, you can use a thicker cream or ointment and even wear cotton gloves to lock in moisture if your hands are very damaged.
Alcohol-based sanitisers do dry the skin, but look for formulas with added moisturisers like glycerin. Use the minimum amount needed for coverage and let it air-dry rather than waving hands in the air, which can increase evaporation.
If cracks are deep, painful or at risk of infection, or if a red, itchy rash develops, medical advice is wise. Often, small adjustments and regular moisturising restore comfort within a few weeks.