Chefs can benefit from a shielding lotion's protection by Len Simpson
Whether you are the chief cook and bottle washer in your own domestic castle or you work as a food service professional, the abuse your hands take with constant exposure to bacteria-laden raw meats, acidic produce, dry skin from extreme heat, or just the sheer frequency with which your hands must be washed, can take its toll on the health of your skin.
Studies show that using a shielding lotion can protect against harsh irritants, and the skin conditions associated with the high heats common in kitchens whether in the work place or home environment.
Healthy skin is the body's first line of defense against exposure to bacteria found in raw meats and some produce. Dry skin, excessive heat and frequent washings can cause cracks in the skin that can be inviting to microscopic threats.
"Your skin is most exposed to harmful chemicals in everyday work environments," says Dr. Lisa Benest, a board-certified dermatologist in Burbank, Calif. "When constant exposure to heat and moisture strip away its natural protective barrier, a shielding lotion can help to protect your skin."
Hands are skilled tools for the resident chef, but high temperatures in hot kitchen environments - sometimes reaching 105 to 110 degrees while cooking in front of hot grills - can lead to heat rashes and skin irritation even for the most seasoned professional.
Preventative tips against skin irritants include:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals as often as possible, but choose a mild anti-bacterial detergent that will help prevent bacterial spread.
- Wear gloves when you must deal with stronger cleaners and keep the area well ventilated.
- Use a shielding lotion for protection against chemical irritants and frequent washings.
Preventative tips against bacterial threats in the kitchen include:
- Use a shielding lotion on a regular basis to maintain healthy, resilient skin.
- Apply a shielding lotion a short time before beginning your time in the kitchen. Allow enough time for the lotion to absorb and bond with your skin's outer layer. This will protect skin against the drying effects of high temperatures as well as the frequent washings.
- Wash hands in hot soapy water before preparing food and after using the bathroom, changing diapers and handling pets.
- Wash cutting boards, knives, utensils and counter tops in hot soapy water after preparing each food item and before going on to the next one.
- Use plastic or other non-porous cutting boards and clean with the dishwasher or in hot soapy water after use.
- Use paper towels to clean up kitchen surfaces, or use cloth towels that are washed often in the hot cycle of the washing machine.
- Cook to proper temperatures. Foods are properly cooked when they are heated for a long enough time and at a high enough temperature to kill the harmful bacteria that cause food borne illnesses.
- Avoid cross-contamination. This is especially true for raw meat, poultry and seafood. Keep these raw foods and their juices away from ready-to-eat foods.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
Epicurean delights are an everyday part of our culture. Don't let the drying, damaging effects of cooking and cleaning spoil your enjoyment. Using a shielding lotion on a regular basis as a line of defense and to protect against a variety of harmful irritants can make the cooking experience more pleasant.
About the Author
Author, Len Simpson, contributes articles on skin care for the National Skin Care Institute. |