The outermost layer helps keep moisture inside the skin while protecting underlying tissues from irritants, allergens, microorganisms, and environmental stress.
This protective function is often called the **skin barrier**.
When the barrier is healthy, the skin generally feels comfortable and flexible.
When it’s damaged, water escapes more easily and irritants can penetrate more readily.
The result can be:
* Dryness
* Flaking
* Peeling
* Tightness
* Redness
* Burning
* Itching
* Small cracks
Hands are especially vulnerable because they are exposed to frequent washing, cleaning products, weather changes, and repeated friction.
## Frequent Handwashing Can Be a Major Culprit
Washing your hands is essential for hygiene, but frequent washing can remove some of the skin’s natural oils.
Hot water can make this effect worse.
So can harsh soaps and detergents.
