Winter's harsh conditions can be particularly unforgiving to our hands, stripping them of moisture and leaving the skin dry and cracked. To combat this issue, three professionals who rely heavily on their hands share their personal strategies for keeping their skin soft and healthy. Dermatologist Michelle Henry, ceramist and furniture designer Simone Bodmer-Turner, and hand model Avisha Tewani offer practical advice on maintaining well-hydrated hands despite the cold weather. Each expert provides unique insights into products and routines that have proven effective in protecting and nurturing the skin.
Moisturizing Routines from a Dermatology Perspective
Dermatologist Michelle Henry emphasizes the importance of frequent moisturization throughout the day. She highlights the lack of oil glands in our palms, which makes regular hydration crucial. Henry recommends using a hydrating hand wash followed by an intensive yet non-greasy cream. At night, she opts for hand masks and gel-lined gloves to lock in moisture while sleeping. For severely cracked skin, she suggests soaking in a colloidal oat bath before applying a mask or cream and wearing gloves. In extreme cases, consulting a dermatologist for prescription treatments may be necessary.
Henry's daily routine involves cleansing her hands with a Dove Advanced Care Deep Moisture Hand Wash. This product not only cleanses but also hydrates the skin. Post-wash, she applies Neutrogena’s Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, which contains petroleum to prevent water loss without causing greasiness. For nighttime care, she uses Aquaphor Repairing Hand Masks and ZenToes Moisturizing Gloves. These tools help maintain optimal hydration levels overnight. When dealing with more severe dryness, Henry recommends Aveeno’s colloidal oat bath treatment combined with a bedtime skincare routine involving creams and gloves.
Creative Solutions from a Ceramist and Furniture Designer
Simone Bodmer-Turner, a ceramist and furniture designer, faces unique challenges due to her work with clay, plaster, and wood. Her hands require special attention to counteract the drying effects of these materials. Bodmer-Turner starts her day with Saipua’s Cedarwood soap, which is both gentle and moisturizing. She appreciates its natural scents derived from herbs and flowers. Additionally, she has switched to dark-colored towels to better suit her rural lifestyle, favoring Mara Organic’s Waffle Towels in Midnight for their softness and absorbency.
Bodmer-Turner’s approach to hand care extends beyond basic hygiene. After working with various materials, she relies on Marie Veronique Body Barrier Emulsion to restore and protect her skin. This high-end emulsion forms a protective layer that shields against environmental stressors. For deeper conditioning, she uses Bag Balm the Original and Lauren’s All Purpose Salve. Both products are rich in nourishing ingredients that deeply penetrate the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration. By integrating these specialized products into her routine, Bodmer-Turner maintains healthy and resilient hands despite the demanding nature of her craft.
Discover Unmatched Elegance in Paradise
The Vision Behind the Venture
Traveling by helicopter from one island to another for lunch might seem extraordinary, but it becomes the norm when your destination is Nobu Barbuda. This remote outpost of the renowned restaurant chain sits on a semi-deserted beach, offering an unparalleled dining experience. The vision for this location began with the 81-year-old actor, Robert De Niro, who envisions transforming this serene setting into a premier resort.The Nobu Beach Inn, slated to open at year-end, targets discerning travelers willing to spend upwards of $2,500 per night for a one-bedroom bungalow. This project represents a significant milestone in De Niro’s expanding hospitality empire, which started with the Tribeca Grill in Manhattan in 1990. Over the years, De Niro has partnered with acclaimed Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa, leading to the establishment of multiple Nobu restaurants worldwide.A Legacy of Excellence
In 1994, De Niro played a pivotal role in persuading Chef Nobu Matsuhisa to open a branch in Manhattan, naming it after his first name rather than his surname. This decision marked the beginning of a global phenomenon. By 2013, the first Nobu Hotel opened at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, heralding a new era in luxury accommodations. Today, Nobu Hospitality, co-founded by De Niro, Matsuhisa, and film producer Meir Teper, boasts an international portfolio of 42 hotels, 12 residential developments, and 56 restaurants.This current project on Barbuda holds special significance for De Niro, as it is the only hotel within the Nobu empire where he has direct ownership through Paradise Found Barbuda LLC. Unlike other Nobu properties, which operate under management and licensing agreements, this resort reflects De Niro’s personal touch and commitment to creating a unique guest experience.Exclusive Ambiance and Intimate Settings
The Nobu Beach Inn aims to provide an upscale yet homey atmosphere, blending understated elegance with exclusivity. Daniel Shamoon, managing partner of Paradise Found Barbuda, emphasizes that the resort caters to individuals who prefer privacy and seclusion. The development will include not only the hotel but also private villas, ensuring guests can enjoy the tranquility of their surroundings without feeling overcrowded.The clear blue waters surrounding Barbuda offer a breathtaking backdrop for this luxurious retreat. Visitors arriving by helicopter are greeted with stunning views, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay. The Nobu Barbuda restaurant serves as the initial phase of this ambitious project, laying the foundation for what promises to be a remarkable addition to the world of high-end travel.Innovative Design and Sustainable Practices
The design of the Nobu Beach Inn integrates modern architecture with natural elements, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The use of locally sourced materials and energy-efficient technologies underscores the importance of preserving the environment while delivering exceptional service. Each bungalow is thoughtfully crafted to maximize comfort and minimize environmental impact, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly tourism.Moreover, the resort plans to incorporate wellness programs and activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, yoga sessions, and guided nature walks, all designed to enhance their overall experience. The integration of these amenities ensures that visitors leave feeling refreshed and revitalized, ready to return to their daily lives with renewed energy.Future Prospects and Expansion Plans
As the Nobu Beach Inn prepares to welcome its first guests, anticipation builds for what lies ahead. De Niro’s involvement in this project signals a new chapter in his career, merging his passion for hospitality with his dedication to creating memorable experiences. The success of this venture could pave the way for further expansion, both within the Caribbean and beyond.The international reach of Nobu Hospitality continues to grow, driven by the collaborative efforts of its founders. With each new property, they strive to uphold the brand’s reputation for excellence while exploring innovative ways to cater to evolving traveler preferences. The Nobu Beach Inn stands as a testament to their shared vision and unwavering commitment to redefining luxury travel.Over the span of two years, an individual embarked on a journey to transform their life through running, only to discover that ignoring basic physical conditioning can lead to unforeseen consequences. Initially motivated by social influences and personal challenges, this person signed up for a half-marathon in the winter of 2023. Despite having no prior athletic experience, they dove headfirst into training, driven by the allure of physical and mental rejuvenation. However, this enthusiasm came at a cost—overconfidence led to injury, and what started as a broken shin bone spiraled into months of recurring issues. The story highlights the importance of proper preparation and listening to one's body.
In the winter of 2023, the protagonist found themselves signing up for a half-marathon, influenced by the growing trend of running as a remedy for both physical and emotional ailments. With little to no background in sports, they were inspired by friends, writers, and influencers who praised running as a universal solution. Determined to join this movement, they quickly immersed themselves in the world of athletics, purchasing flashy gear and diving into a rigorous training regimen. On race day, despite the cold and challenging conditions, they pushed forward, fueled by a misplaced sense of invincibility.
However, the aftermath was far from triumphant. After crossing the finish line, the adrenaline rush subsided, revealing a painful reality—a fractured shin bone. This injury marked the beginning of a series of setbacks. Despite the discomfort, the individual continued to push through, ignoring advice to rest and recover properly. Over the following months, new injuries emerged, including sprains and tendinitis, all stemming from an underlying issue: poor alignment and weak posterior muscles. The body’s interconnectedness became painfully clear as one problem led to another.
It wasn’t until much later that the individual sought professional help. A visit to a physical therapist revealed that while the shin had healed, the root cause of ongoing issues lay in a lack of strength in key muscle groups. The therapist explained that without addressing these weaknesses, the cycle of injury would continue. This realization forced a reevaluation of fitness priorities, emphasizing the need for balanced development rather than rapid achievement. The journey highlighted the importance of patience and proper preparation in any physical endeavor.
Ultimately, the experience served as a valuable lesson in the importance of foundational fitness principles. What began as a quest for quick results turned into a deeper understanding of the body’s needs. By acknowledging the role of core strength and alignment, the individual learned that true progress comes from building a solid base, rather than rushing toward goals. This shift in mindset paved the way for a more sustainable and healthy approach to fitness.