In the realm of personal care, hand creams hold a unique place of importance. Our hands are constantly exposed to various elements, from harsh weather conditions to frequent washing, all of which can take a toll on the skin. Therefore, choosing the best hand cream isn’t just about luxury; it’s about maintaining the health and appearance of one of the most used parts of our body. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of hand creams, exploring their benefits, key ingredients, and the top products available today.
Top Picks
- SHEA BETTER HAND CREAM: Whipped vanilla, soft musk, and cozy caramel create our luxurious Shea Better Vanilla Cashmere Hand Cream, which gives your skin the royal treatment.
- 24-HOUR HYDRATION FOR YOUR HANDS: eos 24-hour hydration hand lotion lasts through hand washing is made with natural ingredients to leave your hands feeling smooth. Our collection of incredible hand cream fragrances will delight in application and last all day on skin.
- SMOOTH ON LOTION FOR DRY SKIN: Apply this fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and deliciously scented hand cream to just-cleaned hands, paying special attention to dry, rough areas. Relax – we’ll do the rest.
- SUSTAINABLE SKIN CARE: eos hand cream will protect and moisturize your skin with 7 nourishing oils + butters, including natural shea butter and shea oil. Shea oil provides immediate moisture & comfort while shea butter provides lasting moisture & protection.
- ALL-NATURAL SHEA BUTTER: eos skin care products have wild grown, sustainably-sourced 100% natural shea butter to make skin feel moisturized, protected and soft. We are paraben, phthalate and gluten free. Dermatologist tested. Vegan. Hypoallergenic. Leaping Bunny certified. No products tested on animals.
- Includes one (1) 3-oz. bottle of Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream With Aloe
- Gold Bond Hand Cream softens and nourishes skin with 7 moisturizers and 3 vitamins
- Positive ions keep moisture attached to the skin, even after you wash your hands
- This Gold Bond Hand Cream has been tested by dermatologists and is hypoallergenic
- This nongreasy skin cream is quick-absorbing and has a fresh, clean scent
- Hand cream for dry to very dry rough hands leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. This shea butter hand cream immediately soothes hands and is resistant to hand washing.
- It provides up to 48- hour hydration for dry hands damaged by aggressions at home and work such as cold weather and frequent hand-washing.
- Immediately soothes damaged and dry to very dry hands, fast-absorbing, non-greasy hand cream
- Recommended for Dry and very dry hands, rough cracked hands, hands damaged by aggressions at home and work such as dry air, cold weather, frequent hand-washing, and exposure to chemicals
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
The Importance of Hand Cream
Hand creams serve multiple purposes:
- Moisturization: The primary function of a hand cream is to provide hydration. The skin on our hands is thinner and contains fewer oil glands compared to other parts of the body, making it more prone to dryness and cracking.
- Protection: Hand creams form a protective barrier against environmental aggressors like cold weather, wind, and pollution. This barrier helps retain moisture and shield the skin from potential damage.
- Healing and Repair: For those with dry, cracked, or chapped hands, hand creams often contain healing ingredients that promote skin repair and alleviate discomfort.
- Anti-Aging: Many hand creams are formulated with anti-aging ingredients to combat signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, which often appear more prominently on the hands.
Key Ingredients in Hand Creams
Understanding the ingredients in hand creams can help you choose the right product for your specific needs. Here are some key components to look for:
- Humectants: Ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and urea attract moisture from the environment and help retain it in the skin.
- Emollients: Shea butter, cocoa butter, and various oils (such as jojoba, almond, and coconut) soften and smooth the skin by filling in gaps between skin cells.
- Occlusives: These create a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture. Common occlusives include petrolatum, beeswax, and dimethicone.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Vitamins A, C, and E, along with other antioxidants, protect the skin from free radical damage and promote skin health.
- Healing Agents: Ingredients like aloe vera, allantoin, and panthenol help soothe and repair damaged skin.
- Anti-Aging Compounds: Retinol, peptides, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can help reduce signs of aging by promoting collagen production and skin renewal.
10 Best Hand Creams
With an understanding of the importance and key ingredients of hand creams, let’s explore some of the best hand creams available today. These products have been selected based on their formulations, user reviews, and effectiveness.
1. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
Ingredients: Glycerin, water, stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, sodium cetearyl sulfate, fragrance, and preservatives.
Benefits: Known for its highly concentrated formula, Neutrogena’s Norwegian Formula Hand Cream provides immediate relief for dry, chapped hands. The inclusion of glycerin ensures long-lasting hydration, making it a favorite among users.
Why It’s Great: Its non-greasy feel and ability to provide up to 200 applications in a single tube make it a cost-effective choice for those dealing with extremely dry hands.
2. L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
Ingredients: Shea butter, coconut oil, honey, almond extract, and glycerin.
Benefits: This luxurious hand cream is enriched with 20% shea butter, offering intense nourishment and protection. Its rich texture absorbs quickly, leaving hands feeling soft and smooth without a greasy residue.
Why It’s Great: The combination of natural ingredients not only hydrates but also provides antioxidant benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both moisturization and anti-aging properties.
3. Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream
Ingredients: Oatmeal extract, glycerin, petrolatum, and dimethicone.
Benefits: Formulated for sensitive skin, Aveeno’s hand cream harnesses the soothing power of oatmeal to provide relief from dryness and irritation. Its non-greasy formula ensures rapid absorption and long-lasting moisture.
Why It’s Great: Its ability to form a protective barrier against environmental aggressors makes it ideal for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
4. CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream
Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin.
Benefits: This dermatologist-recommended hand cream helps restore the skin’s natural barrier with essential ceramides and provides intense hydration with hyaluronic acid. Niacinamide aids in calming the skin and reducing redness.
Why It’s Great: Its fragrance-free and non-irritating formula makes it suitable for all skin types, especially those with eczema or other skin conditions.
5. Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream
Ingredients: Urea, ceramide-3, glycerin, and natural moisturizing factors.
Benefits: Eucerin’s hand cream is designed to provide immediate and long-lasting relief for very dry skin. Urea and ceramides work together to hydrate and repair the skin barrier, while natural moisturizing factors enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
Why It’s Great: Its light, fast-absorbing formula makes it perfect for daily use without leaving a greasy feel.
6. Burt’s Bees Almond & Milk Hand Cream
Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, beeswax, aloe vera, and vitamin E.
Benefits: This hand cream combines the moisturizing power of almond oil with the protective properties of beeswax. Aloe vera and vitamin E provide additional soothing and healing benefits.
Why It’s Great: The natural, nourishing ingredients make it a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly and effective hand cream.
7. Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve
Ingredients: Avocado oil, sesame oil, eucalyptus oil, and allantoin.
Benefits: Formulated for active, working hands, Kiehl’s hand salve provides heavy-duty moisture and protection. The blend of natural oils and allantoin helps to soothe and condition dry, rough skin.
Why It’s Great: Its thick, rich texture is particularly effective for those whose hands undergo frequent stress and exposure to harsh conditions.
8. O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream
Ingredients: Glycerin, stearic acid, paraffin, and allantoin.
Benefits: This hand cream is specifically designed to heal, relieve, and repair extremely dry, cracked hands. Its unique formula creates a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, enhancing moisture levels and preventing further moisture loss.
Why It’s Great: Its effectiveness in transforming severely dry hands within days has made it a favorite among those with challenging skin conditions.
Choosing the Right Hand Cream for Your Needs
Selecting the best hand cream depends on your specific skin concerns and personal preferences. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed choice:
- Skin Type:
- Dry Skin: Look for hand creams with rich emollients like shea butter or oils to provide intense hydration.
- Sensitive Skin: Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas to avoid irritation.
- Aging Skin: Choose products with anti-aging ingredients such as retinol or peptides to target fine lines and age spots.
- Normal Skin: A lightweight, hydrating formula with humectants like glycerin should suffice.
- Lifestyle:
- Active or Working Hands: Heavier, more protective formulas like those from O’Keeffe’s or Kiehl’s are ideal.
- Frequent Hand Washing: Hand creams with occlusives to lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier are beneficial.
- Preferences:
- Texture: Some prefer a lightweight, fast-absorbing cream, while others may favor a richer, more substantial formula.
- Scent: Fragrance-free options are best for sensitive skin, while lightly scented creams can provide a pleasant sensory experience.
- Ingredients to Avoid: If you have sensitive skin, steer clear of potential irritants such as artificial fragrances, dyes, and harsh preservatives.
Tips for Effective Use of Hand Creams
Maximizing the benefits of your hand cream involves more than just choosing the right product. Here are some tips for optimal use:
- Apply Regularly: Use hand cream after washing your hands, before going to bed, and whenever your hands feel dry.
- Use a Pea-Sized Amount: A small amount is usually sufficient. Rub it in thoroughly, focusing on dry areas.
- Massage: Take a few moments to massage the cream into your hands. This not only enhances absorption but also promotes circulation.
- Wear Gloves: For an overnight treatment, apply a thick layer of hand cream and wear cotton gloves to lock in moisture.
- Hydrate from Within: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall skin hydration.
What is the absolute best hand cream?
Determining the absolute best hand cream is subjective and depends on individual preferences and skin needs. However, several hand creams consistently stand out for their effectiveness and user satisfaction. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream is often touted as one of the best due to its highly concentrated formula that provides immediate relief for dry, chapped hands without leaving a greasy residue. It contains glycerin and other emollients that deeply hydrate the skin, making it a favorite among users with extremely dry skin.
Another highly regarded option is L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, enriched with 20% shea butter. This luxurious cream absorbs quickly, leaving hands feeling soft and smooth. It’s particularly praised for its rich texture and long-lasting moisturizing effects.
Ultimately, the best hand cream for you will depend on your specific skin concerns, preferences for texture and scent, and any sensitivities you may have. Testing different products can help you find the perfect match for your needs.
What hand cream do dermatologists recommend?
Dermatologists often recommend hand creams that are effective in hydrating and protecting the skin without causing irritation. Here are some hand creams that dermatologists commonly recommend:
1. CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream: This hand cream is formulated with essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore the skin’s barrier and provide long-lasting hydration. It is non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin.
2. Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream: Dermatologists recommend this hand cream for its effective repair of dry, cracked skin. It contains urea and ceramide-3, which help replenish moisture and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.
3. Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream: This hand cream is enriched with oatmeal, glycerin, and dimethicone to soothe and moisturize dry, irritated skin. It is fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin.
4. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream: Known for its highly concentrated formula, dermatologists recommend this hand cream for its ability to provide immediate relief to severely dry hands. It contains glycerin and other emollients to effectively hydrate the skin.
5. Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream: Although not exclusively a hand cream, dermatologists often recommend Cetaphil’s moisturizing cream for its gentle yet effective moisturization. It is suitable for dry, sensitive skin and can be used on hands and other areas of the body.
These hand creams are chosen for their ability to hydrate and protect the skin, as well as their suitability for sensitive and problem-prone skin types. Dermatologists also emphasize the importance of choosing products that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to minimize the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
What is the best cream for dry hands?
Here are some different top creams that are highly effective for treating dry hands:
1. L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: Known for its luxurious texture and high shea butter content (20%), this hand cream provides deep hydration and nourishment. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it a favorite for those with dry hands.
2. Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve: This heavy-duty hand salve is designed to provide intense hydration and protection for dry, rough hands. Formulated with avocado oil, sesame oil, and eucalyptus oil, it soothes and moisturizes without feeling heavy on the skin.
3. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Mains Hand Cream: Specifically formulated for very dry, irritated hands, this hand cream contains shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide to repair the skin barrier and provide long-lasting hydration. It is non-greasy and suitable for sensitive skin.
4. Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream: While not exclusively a hand cream, many people swear by this rich, nourishing cream for dry hands. It contains natural ingredients like chamomile, calendula, and beeswax to deeply moisturize and soothe dry, rough skin.
5. Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm: This luxurious hand balm is enriched with botanical extracts and emollient ingredients to hydrate, soften, and protect the hands. It has a delightful citrus and herb scent and absorbs quickly into the skin.
These creams are highly recommended for their rich formulations that effectively combat dryness and restore moisture to the hands, leaving them feeling soft, smooth, and comfortable. Each product offers unique benefits, so choosing the best one depends on your specific preferences and skin needs.
The Bottom Line
Hand creams are an essential part of a skincare routine, providing much-needed hydration, protection, and repair for our hands. By understanding the key ingredients and benefits, and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can find the perfect hand cream to keep your hands soft, smooth, and healthy. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, sensitivity, or the signs of aging, there’s a hand cream out there that’s just right for you.
