Caring for Dry, Cracked Hands
Dry, cracked hands can be painful and unpleasant. However, with the right hand cream and self-care, relief is possible. This article reviews 12 hand creams recommended by experts to soothe, restore and protect even severely dry skin.
Understanding the Causes
Dry, cracked hands have many potential causes including:
- Frequent hand washing
- Exposure to irritants like cleaning products
- Cold, dry weather
- Aging skin and circulation changes
- Medical conditions
While the triggers vary, the solution comes down to providing intensive moisture, protection and care.
Choosing an Effective Hand Cream
When selecting a hand cream, the most important factors are:
- Intense hydration – Look for humectant ingredients like glycerin, shea butter and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier repair – Ceramides, dimethicone and other emollients help seal moisture into the skin.
- Soothing relief – Botanical extracts like aloe, calendula and chamomile calm irritation.
The hand creams recommended here contain these and other beneficial ingredients to thoroughly replenish dry, damaged hands.
12 Expert-Recommended Hand Creams
1. L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
2. Aveeno Eczema Therapy Hand Cream
3. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream
4. Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream
5. O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream
6. Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Hand Cream
7. CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream
8. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
9. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
10. Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair
11. Nivea Essentially Enriched Body Lotion
12. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Hand Cream
While each hand cream has a unique formulation, they all share key hydrating ingredients like glycerin, dimethicone and shea butter. Additional botanical extracts work to soothe and calm dry, sensitive skin.
Tips for Repairing Extremely Dry Hands
For optimal relief of severely dry, cracked hands, experts also recommend:
- Wear gloves for wet work and cold weather
- Avoid harsh cleaners and use gentle hand soaps
- Apply cream and cover hands overnight
- Use hand cream after each hand washing
Consistency is key – frequent reapplication of a rich, protective hand cream supports the skin’s natural recovery process.
The Takeaway
From cult favorites to dermatologist standbys, these 12 hand creams offer intensive repair for even painfully dry hands. Look for hydrating ceramides, glycerin, shea butter and other moisturizing ingredients. Avoid known irritants. Apply liberally and often!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredient should I look for in a hand cream?
Look for hydrating and protecting ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone and ceramides.
How often should I apply hand cream?
For severely dry hands, apply hand cream every time after washing and reapply as needed. Consistency is key.
Should I wear gloves with hand cream?
Yes, wearing gloves over hand cream can help drive moisture into the skin and prevent cream from rubbing off.
What causes extremely dry, cracked hands?
Frequent hand washing, cold weather, irritants, medical conditions and aging skin circulation changes can all severely dry the hands.
When should I see my doctor for dry hands?
See your doctor if the hands aren’t improving with intensive at-home care. Other medical conditions could be involved.
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