The Care of the Hands.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 976, 14 November 1890, Page 4

The Care of the Hands.

LITTLE THINGS THAT WILL KEEP THEM m GOOD CONDITION. Probably there is no one thing that makes gnls shrink from housework more than the effect it b&8 on the hands, especially in onM weather It Is a real trial to sit down to piano and spread a stained, rough hand on the ivory keys ; or to take one’s pen in an un sightly hand to answer a letter ; or pick un a bit of embroidery, if it is only that on n e r forated hose, and use the needle when everv thing that touches the hands sticks to them because of their roughness. Sewing on wool len or silk is at such times a severe penance* There are methods of preserving the hands measurably against the destructive effect of dishwashing, scrubbing and the like. Thev should be kept as much out of ths water as possible, and when the work is done they Bhould be washed clean and rubhed dry Borax water is good for washing the hands. Coarsely ground oatmeal is a fair substitute for soap in washing the hands White nnscented soaps are the best, as the highly scented soaps are usually made of rancid fats. A solution of oxalic acid will remove fruit stains from the hands, but it must not touch an ab<aided surface. After washing and drying the hands thoroughly, glycerine and spirits of camphor in equal parts mixed together is good to rub over them. Cocoannt oil is a pleasant application. Wearing kid gloves two sizes too large is helpful in pro. serving the hands. One should have an old pair of gloves to takes up ashes in, to sweep in and to wear in all dirty work that permits the wearing of gloves. If gloves are dipped in not very hot linseed oil they become waterproof, and may be worn while washing dishes. A pair of canton flannel mittens is pleasant to wear when hanging oat the clothes on a cold morning. Frequent vigorous rubbingof the hands will promote circulation and keep the skin in good condition. To take the best care of the □ails, soak the ends of the fingers in hot water for some time, until the skin is softened, then dry, and with a pair of nail scissors thin off all the dead skin about the nails and trims the nails neatly.