Your hands are often the first culprits to be exposed to elements such as dry air and harsh chemicals through regular washing (or sanitising). While it’s always important to wash your hands and practice good hygiene, you also need to keep your hands nourished and protected with good-quality hand creams or lotions.
Did you know that your hands often reveal your age? According to a study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,“After your face, hands are the second most visible, tell-tale sign of a person’s age.” Especially when veins and wrinkles are made worse by dry, chapped skin.
We’ve rounded up the best hand creams and lotions; from lightweight formulas to handbag essentials and nourishing treatment products to keep your hands soft, smooth and supple.
ALSO SEE: How to age-proof your hands
Our pick of hand creams for dry skin
Barrier cream
If you’re looking for a nourishing cream to offer protection against regular hand washing and sanitising, then Avene Cicalfate Hand Repair, R149 for 100ml is a good pick. It contains anti-bacterial agents in it’s creamy formula, and is specifically made to heal and soothe dry, chapped hands. It’s transparent at first, then glides on hands beautifully.
On-the-go hydration
One of the Body Shop’s best-sellers. We love the light, non-greasy gel formula of The Body Shop Moringa Hand Cream, R70 for 30ml. Not to mention how fabulous the floral powdery scent smells. It’s a perfect reminder of warm, summery days.
Lightweight lotion
The rich coconut oil, sweet almond and shea butter blend in the Hey Gorgeous Coconut Hand Lotion, R105 for 225ml helps to soothe and nourish dry, chapped hands and cuticles. It also contains jojoba, which is a natural skin moisturiser. Although it’s lightweight, it works fast to replenish lost moisture. Reapply regularly throughout the day.
Dry-skin reliever
Ideal for those with eczema and other skin conditions, Epi-Max Hand Cream, R58,99 for 75ml is a non-irritating formula that contains pure cetomacrogol cream and glycerine. It’s also free from artificial colouring and perfumes.
Intensive repair
We love Eucerin UreaRepair Plus Dry Skin Intensive Hand Cream, R142,99 for 75ml because it contains urea – known to effectively treat dry, rough hands and cuticles. It also helps to treat ingrown nails and other skin conditions such as psoriasis, corns and calluses.
Soothing balm
Lulu & Marula Soothing Hand And Foot Balm, R270 is a must for dry hands and cuticles, as well as elbows and feet. It’s packed with a rich blend of nourishing oils and butters to protect the skin, while feeding it the essential moisture it needs. If you like balms – this is the perfect product. The bonus? A small amount goes a long way. Simply rub and warm a small amount between your palms and use it where you need it most.
ALSO SEE: What Tricia Cusden changed about her skincare routine when she turned 50.
By Freelance Writer Tammy Jacks
