“The leading causes of dry hands are overwashing and under- moisturizing,” says Tina Alster, a dermatologist in Washington, D.C. But there are some other insidious offenders lurking in everyday activities.

Cooking. Chopping and handling vegetables, such as onions and garlic, and peeling oranges and grapefruit all affect the skin because of the pH levels of those foods, says Jeannette Graf, a dermatologist in Great Neck, New York.

Chores. The impact of soaking hands in water and dishwashing liquid is well-known. But any contact with household chemicals or water, such as handling wet laundry or damp cloths, will also dry out the skin. “Get a box of latex gloves so you can use one every time you do household tasks,” says Graf.

Gardening. The heavy-duty scrubbing that’s required to remove soil from the hands and from under the nails is what leaves them dry after gardening. New York City dermatologist Neil Sadick recommends always wearing cotton-lined rubber gloves while working outside.