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The Best Hand Lotion

Last updated on October 11, 2022
Best Hand Lotion

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You rely on your hands for household chores, work and a variety of other tasks. All this activity, along with environmental conditions, health-related issues, chemical exposure, and other factors can make your hands dry and chapped, especially in the cold winter months when humidity can be lower.

Hand lotion is the go-to solution for keeping hands soft and healthy. But today’s lotions don’t just help hydrate your skin. They create a moisture barrier that protects your hands’ natural hydration levels. You have your choice of many different lotions, though, which means you should determine your moisturizing needs before you start shopping.

The problem with many hand creams is that you’re likely washing your hands throughout the day. Plus, some lotions seem to lose their effect an hour or two after application. This means you’ll need to reapply frequently to get the best results.

A good hand lotion includes ingredients that naturally prevent moisture loss. Most moisturizers feature a combination of occlusives and humectants to protect and nourish the skin. Occlusives add a layer of oil to the skin, which cuts down on water loss in the outermost layer of the epidermis. Humectants draw moisture from the air and can break down dead skin skills to make that process more effective.

When you’re looking at hand lotions, it’s important to note the ingredients. Occlusives include petroleum jelly, mineral oil, shea butter, lanolin and dimethicone. Humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lactic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids.

In addition to these ingredients, hand lotions can be packed with fragrances and dyes. These can irritate sensitive skin, so you may prefer moisturizers that label themselves as fragrance and dye-free.

One last important consideration is method of delivery. Hand lotions often come in small tubes that you can take on the go with you. They also come in jars or inside circular containers and you can even buy solid bar versions. You can also purchase much larger containers designed to remain on the sink at home. If you opt for the latter, consider a hand lotion bottle with a pump that’ll make dispensing your emollient easy. Having it right where you wash your hands will also make it easier to remember to apply lotion throughout the day.

Our Picks For The Top Hand Lotions

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Fragrance-Free Quick Absorbing Hand Lotion

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Aveeno

Daily Moisturizing Fragrance-Free Quick Absorbing Hand Lotion

Use of this convenient hand lotion provides moisturizing power for up to 24 hours. The oatmeal-based formula is fast-absorbing and great at helping to heal dry skin and trap moisture inside. The lotion is fragrance-free and non-greasy.

Overall Take

For Busy RoutinesIf you want a soothing oat-based hand lotion that can improve your skin in just one day of use, try this.

 Runner Up

O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Unscented Moisturizing Hand Lotion, 2-Pack

O'Keeffe's

Working Hands Unscented Moisturizing Hand Lotion, 2-Pack

This hand cream's concentrated formula helps protect your skin by creating a moisture barrier. The cream can also help heal dry, chapped hands. Apply after washing your hands or bathing and just before bed — or anytime you need relief.

Overall Take

Preventive OptionThis hand lotion creates a protective barrier over skin, so it's ideal for those who work with their hands.

 We Also Like

Burt’s Bees Unscented Baobab Oil Organic Hand Lotion

Burt's Bees

Unscented Baobab Oil Organic Hand Lotion

Designed to relieve very dry skin, this organic hand lotion provides all-day moisturization. It's made using all-natural ingredients, including baobab oil, green tea extract and pumpkin oil. The cream is hypoallergenic and free of any scents, so it won't interfere with your favorite body spray or perfume.

Overall Take

Gently ExfoliatesAll of the ingredients in this organic hand lotion are responsibly sourced.

 Strong Contender

Gold Bond Non-Greasy Healing Hand Lotion

Gold Bond

Gold Bond Non-Greasy Healing Hand Lotion

Gold Bond’s nourishing, hypoallergenic, super-moisturizing hand cream in a 3-ounce bottle is packed with vitamins A, C and E, plus seven moisturizers. It has a non-greasy feel, is fragrance-free and will last through multiple hand washings.

Overall Take

Prevents Skin From DryingThis quick-absorbing, dermatologist-tested brand can help keep your hands soft and smooth all day long.

What to Look For

  • Although there are some lotions that promise 24-hour relief, it can never hurt to reapply after washing your hands or bathing. Once you add moisturizing to your daily routine, you’ll find it quickly becomes second nature.
  • Dry, itchy skin is an issue many diabetics deal with. Diabetics should look for lotions that contain ingredients like aloe vera, oat extracts and essential vitamins. These help naturally restore and protect the skin’s moisture barrier.
  • When switching to any new cosmetic product, it’s important to test on a small patch of skin before applying more liberally to reduce the impact of a reaction.
  • If you’re looking for a thicker lotion that doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind, one with an oatmeal-based formula might be the best option for you.
  • Applying moisturizers and lotions before bedtime can be a great way to give your skin hours of uninterrupted nourishment. Wearing cotton gloves over a layer of thick creams or ointments while you’re sleeping can further boost moisturizing benefits.
  • For more severe skin issues, you’ll need to consult a dermatologist before starting a new skincare routine. Some lotions are better than others for treating conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis. In many cases, more serious skin problems will require a prescription.
  • Exfoliation can make a big difference in the softness of your skin. Although the benefits of exfoliation are often concentrated on the face, you can see similar benefits when exfoliating your hands. Simply use a hand scrub or your regular body scrub, then cover your hands in a thick hand cream after they’re dry.
  • If you work with your hands, gloves can be a great way to protect them. This works even while washing dishes at home. If gloves aren’t a possibility at work, make sure you moisturize often.

More to Explore

You’ve probably heard the saying “cold hands, warm heart,” but the heart actually has very little to do with why your hands are cold. Both your hands and feet tend to be colder than the rest of your body when exposed to cooler temperatures. This is part of the body’s natural process of protecting your internal organs by concentrating blood flow there when necessary.

But if your hands are always cold, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition. Nerve damage, blood flow issues and tissue damage are all possible causes. Keep an eye out for tingling or changes in color in your fingers and your toes. Seek medical attention if you’re concerned.

More to explore