If you think you can get away with not using hand creams during winter, think again. When the cold is kicking in at its hardest, your hands will practically beg you for that TLC. As such, hand cream is one of the most essential skincare products. Sure, you’ve got your moisturisers, cleansers, body lotions and serums sorted; but considering the amount of times that you should be re-applying hand cream throughout the day, we’d argue that having one in your purse is absolutely non-negotiable.
Why? Let’s start with the fact that the skin on our hands is more prone to dry out more than on other parts of our bodies. And when you add the element of hand-washing, sanitising, wind and other external factors – you’re left with dry, cracked hands that are desperately in need of nourishment.
Called upon to alleviate sore skin and provide much-needed hydration, hand creams have stepped up to plate, providing quick and longterm relief. Thanks to the included ceramides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin e and other high-grade skincare ingredients, your hands will go from desert-dry to silky-smooth almost instantly. The best part? There’s no shortage of options. You’ve got lightweight creams, those that are provide lasting moisture, as well as those that help with eczema outbreaks and other skin conditions.
So, whether you’re after a non-greasy, super-hydrating or beautifully-scented hand cream, we’ve picked out everything from the hand creams approved by dermatologists to ultra luxe hand balms that could double up as your favourite fragrance.
How to keep hands healthy:
First, you want to make sure you’re completely drying your hands each time you wash them. Hands that drip-dry are likely to become more parched as the water evaporates off them.
Next, choose a thoroughly nourishing hand cream to help keep the skin plump, smooth and hydrated. Use it every single time you wash your hands to add the moisture back in. If your hands are feeling sensitive, it’s best to opt for a fragrance-free option. If on the other hand, your hands are still pretty hardy, you can enjoy a statement scent.