winter time dry cracked hands

I throw with slip and use as little water as possible. I will use sponges to throw with (very small nature ones) sometimes. As soon as I get out of the shower, I dry off lightly and slather on vaseline lotion or even use vaseline. I also use these wonderful gloves that take off dead skin when I shower. For whatever reason, keeping the dead skin off helps a lot in cold dry climates. If I've been neglectful I slather up with vaseline and put on some gloves and socks. If you are wearing rubber gloves anyway, I would use that as a time to soak with something like vaseline intensive care lotion. Just some thoughts.

Donna

I used a form of refined Udder cream I got from a farm supply originally. I now use a water based cream containing a small amount of a mild antiseptic. The Cream is called Vesagex. It's very good indeed. Usual disclaimers.

Steve

Burt's Bees -- Hand Salve.

I don't use any thing in particular but one hint is to put vaseline on your hands when you are throwing. The only thing you have to remember is not touch any bisqueware until your hands are clean of the stuff.

Elaine

I use bag balm. It comes in a square green can and it is an antiseptic. Get it at a farm supply store. It's for cow's udders. I put it on my hands rather thick before I go to bed and then put on white cotton gloves. When I wake up, my hands feel like new. Great stuff. Sandi

one hint: do not use hot water to throw or wash up. the hot water will open your pores and let the clay slip get in there. this is what causes a great deal of hand problems in the winter time. keep your water only slightly warm, no warmer than it would be in the summer.