Originally Posted by
MothFir
If this is happening try to wash your hands more 'mindfully.' That can be a term used to the point that it means nothing anymore, but, said another way, just pay attention to what you're doing when you wash. Handwashing is such an automatic action that it's easy for our minds to wander and then when we are drying off we wonder if we used enough soap, covered certain spots, etc. Make sure you do it right the first time and then if you still have nagging doubts you can dismiss them as a byproduct of anxiety, knowing that you did in fact do what was needed to stay healthy.
If you find yourself washing a lot because of real potential exposures, maybe wear gloves for some activities to cut down on the washing. You can also think about what tasks you need to do and then do all the 'dirty' ones at once so you only have to wash once.
If you're washing as a result of anxiety, you need to sit down and think about what activities are real exposures, and which ones are probably safe. Resist washing after the safe ones. If you need motivation, remember that if you wash to the point that your skin cracks and bleeds, you've actually increased the chance of germs getting into your system.
Also it probably goes without saying, but moisturize frequently.